From Figo to Mbappe: The Bernabeu’s legacy of star debuts

On Sunday in Madrid, Real Madrid fans will finally get their long-awaited glimpse of Kylian Mbappe wearing the club’s iconic white shirt at the Bernabeu.

Many supporters will recall Mbappe’s past appearances at the stadium, especially his memorable performance for Paris Saint-Germain during their Champions League round of 16 tie against Madrid in FEBRUARY 2022.

At that time, it seemed inevitable that Mbappe would join Real Madrid in the summer. Though that move didn’t materialise then, perhaps patience has its rewards. However, newly-promoted Real Valladolid, Madrid’s opponents this weekend, might view his arrival with trepidation rather than anticipation.

Mbappe’s debut at the Bernabeu will add to the club’s rich history of ‘Galactico’ signings, where the grand unveilings of world-class talent have often made headlines.

LUIS FIGO’s transfer in 2000 remains one of the most dramatic in football history. The Portuguese star’s decision to leave Barcelona for their bitter rivals, Real Madrid, shocked the football world. Figo’s first match for Madrid ended in defeat to Galatasaray, but his Bernabeu debut against Valencia hinted at the turning of a new chapter. He played with determination, contributing to a 2-1 victory that set the tone for a season in which Madrid also captured the La Liga title.

Another unforgettable debut took place on 6 OCTOBER 2002 when RONALDO, fresh off his World Cup triumph with Brazil, made his highly-anticipated home debut. His introduction was marked by an amusing incident as he banged his head on the Madrid bench, much to the amusement of his teammates. But when he took to the field, Ronaldo quickly made his mark, scoring twice in a 5-2 victory over Alaves. This performance solidified his place as a key player in a season where Madrid clinched La Liga and reached the Champions League semi-finals.

DAVID BECKHAM’s arrival on 27 AUGUST 2003 was equally spectacular, capturing the imagination of fans worldwide. The Englishman’s first appearance at the Bernabeu came in the second leg of the Supercopa de Espana against Real Mallorca. Despite a disappointing first leg, Beckham played the full match in the return fixture, scoring a crucial goal in a 3-0 win that secured Madrid’s first trophy of the season. This debut marked the beginning of Beckham’s influential tenure at the club, both on and off the pitch.

The summer of 2009 saw the arrival of another set of stars, headlined by CRISTIANO RONALDO, KAKA, and KARIM BENZEMA. On 29 AUGUST 2009, these new signings made their home debuts in a 3-2 victory against Deportivo La Coruna. Ronaldo, wearing the No 9 shirt, found the back of the net with a penalty, though he also missed several chances as he adapted to his new surroundings. Kaka and Benzema also made their mark, with the latter assisting Raul’s opening goal. This trio would go on to play pivotal roles in Real Madrid’s resurgence under President Florentino Perez.

GARETH BALE’s debut at the Bernabeu, on 28 SEPTEMBER 2013, was delayed by protracted negotiations and injury problems. When he finally took to the pitch in a city derby against Atletico Madrid, he showed flashes of brilliance, despite Real Madrid suffering a 1-0 defeat. Bale’s hard running and determination won over the fans, and he came close to equalising late in the game. Although his debut was not victorious, Bale’s performance hinted at the success that was to come, including five Champions League titles during his time in Madrid.

JAMES RODRIGUEZ made his debut on 19 AUGUST 2014, just weeks after dazzling at the World Cup in Brazil. Rodriguez’s first appearance at the Bernabeu came against Atletico Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana. The Colombian midfielder entered as a substitute and immediately made an impact, scoring the opening goal in the 83rd minute. Although Atletico equalised shortly after, Rodriguez’s debut left the Madrid fans buzzing with excitement over their new No 10.

EDEN HAZARD’s much-anticipated Bernabeu debut occurred on 14 SEPTEMBER 2019, following his record-breaking transfer from Chelsea. Despite high expectations, Hazard’s first appearance was subdued, as he came off the bench in a 3-2 win over Levante. Although he didn’t leave a significant mark on the game, Hazard expressed his delight at finally playing at the Bernabeu. Unfortunately, injuries would plague his time at Madrid, preventing him from fully realising his potential with the club.

Finally, JUDE BELLINGHAM’s debut at the Bernabeu on 2 SEPTEMBER 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. After impressing in Madrid’s opening away fixtures, Bellingham continued his fine form at home, scoring a dramatic 95th-minute winner against Getafe. His performance confirmed what many already knew: a new star had arrived at the Bernabeu.

As Mbappe prepares to make his Bernabeu debut, he joins a long line of illustrious players who have graced the stadium in their first appearances. The excitement and anticipation surrounding his arrival reflect the enduring allure of Real Madrid and the club’s ability to attract the world’s best talents.