Mbappé scored twice as José Mourinho’s side beat Barcelona 2-1 at Spotify Camp Nou, reaching 100 goals for Madrid and delivering a result that cut the gap at the top of LaLiga to three points.
Speaking on Movistar Plus Deportes, former Madrid player and coach Valdano explained that leadership can take different forms, but scoring regularly gives a player exceptional influence.
“There are technical leaders, emotional leaders, social leaders… each has their own way of leading. A guy who scores at a rate of one per game — how can he not be a leader?” Valdano said.
He expanded on the effect Mbappé has on those around him.
“Leadership is having influence, and the player who scores goals has more influence than anyone, doesn’t he?” he said.
“Mbappé is a very, very intelligent person and he leads even if he doesn’t want to, because anything that occurs to him will surely attract the attention of his team-mates.”
The Frenchman’s double proved decisive in the Clásico. His first goal arrived in the 41st minute, when Yan Diomande’s delivery deflected off Barcelona defender Gerard Martín and into the net. Raphinha equalised after the break, but Mbappé struck again in the 87th minute after a rapid counterattack involving Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga.
Valdano’s assessment came as Mbappé’s importance to Madrid continued to grow. The forward had already reached 14 goals and three assists in 13 appearances across competitions, underlining the contribution that prompted the former coach’s comments.
Gerard López, meanwhile, offered another perspective on Madrid’s performance, arguing that the team have looked more balanced during Vinícius Júnior’s absence.
“Real Madrid are better after Vinícius’ absence. That is how it is. The team is much more balanced,” the former Barcelona midfielder said.
“Without Vinícius, this team runs more and runs better.”
Vinícius missed the Clásico through suspension, leaving Madrid to find another way to provide their attacking threat. The visitors nevertheless produced a disciplined performance, with their defensive organisation and speed on the counter proving influential.
Gerard also singled out Diomande, describing the winger as Madrid’s best performer in the match. The Ivorian supplied the delivery that led to Mbappé’s opening goal and repeatedly threatened Barcelona down the flank.
Mbappé’s goals ultimately decided the contest, but Valdano’s comments highlighted the broader significance of his influence within the team. For Gerard, Madrid’s collective balance was equally important in securing a victory at their rivals’ home ground.