Karanka: “If Mbappe comes to Real Madrid, he will be eligible for the Ballon d’Or”

In a candid interview with Marca, former Real Madrid defender and assistant coach Aitor Karanka shared his insights on Real Madrid’s chances in the upcoming Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappe, Carlo Ancelotti’s coaching philosophy, and more. Karanka’s remarks reflect his deep understanding of the game and his close connection to the club.

Speaking about Real Madrid’s prospects in the Champions League final, Karanka was cautiously optimistic. “Madrid hasn’t lost a final in a long time, I think they have a better team and more experience than Borussia Dortmund... But there is always a but. It would be a danger to underestimate BVB,” he noted.

When asked about the choice between goalkeepers Andriy Lunin and Thibaut Courtois for the final, Karanka acknowledged the difficulty of the decision. “Who to start between Lunin and Courtois? Phew. Very difficult to choose without seeing each person’s daily life. On the one hand you think ‘Lunin deserves it’ and on the other ‘Courtois is the best in the world’,” he explained.

Karanka also weighed in on the speculation surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s potential move to Real Madrid. “I don’t know if Mbappe is the signing you need, but it’s the signing I would make for any team in the world,” Karanka said. “Furthermore, if he comes to Real Madrid, he would be eligible for the Ballon d’Or, if possible, more than currently. In my opinion, at the moment, he is the best player in the world and he would give other things to the team.”

Reflecting on Carlo Ancelotti’s coaching methods, Karanka praised the Italian manager’s approach. “In an interview I heard Ancelotti, with the calmness that he speaks, that he does not train players, that he trains people. In the end it is like that. Sometimes we forget that players are people from whom we have to get the most out of,” he said.

Finally, Karanka touched on Vinicius Jr.’s potential to win the Ballon d’Or. “If Vinicius wins the Champions League..” Karanka explained. “With the seasons he has had before, plus this one, he would be the favorite for Balon D’or.”