Mbappé named Real Madrid’s penalty taker, overtaking Vinicius Junior amid contract tensions
French star to lead penalty duties as internal conflict with Vinicius Júnior deepens over stalled contract talks
Real Madrid has officially appointed Kylian Mbappé as the club’s primary penalty taker for the upcoming season, surpassing Vinicius Júnior, according to reports from the Spanish outlet Marca. The decision places Jude Bellingham as the secondary option, with the Brazilian winger now third in line.
Tensions Rise Amid Salary Dispute
The change in status comes at a sensitive time. Negotiations between Vinicius Júnior and the club over a contract extension have reportedly hit a stalemate. According to sources close to the situation, the Brazilian international is demanding a salary exceeding that of Mbappé currently valued at €34.5 million per year (approximately R$191 million) to remain at the club long-term.
However, the Real Madrid board is unwilling to meet that demand, creating friction behind the scenes with the player’s representatives. The decision to strip him of penalty duties is seen as a further blow to the 24-year-old, who has become a key figure for Los Blancos in recent seasons.
Mbappé’s Penalty Record Outshines Vinicius
Statistically, the decision appears justified. Mbappé has scored 50 goals from the penalty spot across his time with Monaco, PSG, the French national team, and now Real Madrid. He has missed 13 of his 63 attempts a conversion rate of nearly 80%.
In contrast, Vinicius Júnior has scored just 8 penalties in his career, missing 4 out of 12 attempts. The gap in experience and efficiency has likely influenced head coach Xabi Alonso’s decision.
Real Madrid Gears Up for Season Opener
Real Madrid will play one final friendly against WSG Tirol before launching its La Liga campaign. The club’s official season begins on August 19, when they host Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu.
After Barcelona’s domestic sweep under new manager Hansi Flick, winning La Liga has become a top priority for Real Madrid. With a reshaped squad led by Mbappé and a focused title charge, the club is aiming to reassert dominance in Spanish football.
