Kylian Mbappe has shared an emotional farewell message to teammate David Alaba after Real Madrid CF confirmed the defender will leave the club at the end of the season.
Real Madrid announced on Friday that Alaba would depart following the expiration of his contract in June, bringing an end to his spell with the Spanish giants.
The Austrian international’s exit prompted reactions from several figures connected to the club, with Mbappe publicly expressing his admiration and affection for the defender through a message posted on Instagram.
“My brother, how difficult it is to turn this page without you,” Mbappe wrote on his official account.
“You are an amazing player, and even more so as a human being.”
The French forward continued by reflecting on how their relationship had evolved over time.
“You were a fierce competitor, then you became one of my best teammates, and now I can say that you are a friend that football gave me.”
Mbappe concluded his tribute with a message of support for Alaba’s future.
“I wish you all the best, and I will always support you in everything you do.”
The farewell message quickly attracted attention among supporters, highlighting the close bond that developed between the two players during their time together in Madrid.
Alaba’s departure marks the end of an important chapter for the defender, who established himself as a key figure within the Real Madrid squad following his arrival at the club.
Although the official statement confirmed that his contract would not be renewed, no further details were provided regarding the Austrian’s next destination.
Mbappe’s message also underlined the respect Alaba commanded within the dressing room, both for his performances on the pitch and his character away from football.
The French striker described the defender not only as a teammate but also as a close friend, emphasising the personal relationships often formed inside elite football environments.
The announcement comes as Real Madrid prepare to conclude their domestic campaign.
The Spanish club are set to face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday evening in the final round of the Spanish League season.
The match will take place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, with supporters expected to pay tribute to departing figures connected to the club.
Attention surrounding the fixture has increased following confirmation of Alaba’s departure, with many fans expected to use the occasion to acknowledge the Austrian defender’s contribution during his time in Madrid.
Mbappe’s comments meanwhile offered a glimpse into the atmosphere within the Real Madrid squad as the season approaches its conclusion.
The French forward’s emotional tone reflected the significance of Alaba’s exit for players inside the dressing room, where the Austrian was viewed as both an experienced professional and an influential personality.
As Real Madrid prepare for another period of transition ahead of next season, Alaba’s departure represents one of the club’s most notable changes heading into the summer.
For Mbappe, however, the moment was clearly personal, with the striker choosing to publicly honour a teammate he described as one of the friends football had given him.
