Kylian Mbappé is a goal-scoring machine, a generational talent who continues to impress fans with his performances. Madridistas shouldn't fear his arrival—his quality ensures he will succeed, rack up goals, and create unforgettable moments, just like his hat-trick against Manchester City or his brace against Villarreal.

However, beyond the obvious footballing brilliance, there’s something else that might affect his Real Madrid journey. This time, it’s not about tactics, form, or injuries—it’s about Kylian Mbappé, the businessman.

Mbappé’s Expanding Business Empire

In recent years, Mbappé has been making significant strides off the pitch, expanding his business ventures beyond football. Just a few days ago, news broke that he had invested in France SailGP Team, a high-profile sailing team competing internationally. While Mbappé framed it as a way to inspire youth through sports, media outlets saw it for what it was: a pure business investment.

And that’s not all. Over the last three years, Mbappé has gradually transitioned into a business-minded athlete. In 2023, he acquired a major stake in French club SM Caen, a long-term project that could see him take over as club president one day. But his business interests go even deeper.

He owns a private investment group called “Quotient”, through which he’s involved in multiple industries:

• A luxury car dealership
• A stake in Sorare, the fantasy football platform based on cryptocurrency
• Investments in a German tech company specializing in high-end TVs and home cinema equipment
• A media agency focused on managing stars, influencers, and athletes, particularly in handling image rights and sponsorships
• A digital entertainment company in the growing online content space

While it’s normal for footballers to invest their earnings, most players focus on real estate, hotels, or restaurants—passive businesses that don’t require their active involvement. Mbappé, however, is diving deep into industries that demand attention and strategic decisions, raising questions about how this might impact his football career.

The Gerard Piqué Comparison: A Dangerous Path?

Mbappé’s business model resembles that of Gerard Piqué, the former Barcelona defender who was heavily involved in various enterprises during his playing days. Piqué didn’t just invest; he actively managed projects, from football clubs to video game ventures. His growing off-field distractions led to criticism, especially when his performances declined.

If Real Madrid struggles next season or if Mbappé's form dips, Spanish media will undoubtedly turn against him. Madrid’s press is notorious for finding scapegoats, and his business interests could make him an easy target.

We’ve seen this before—players in Spain and England have been criticized for minor distractions. Even a footballer attempting a rap song or side project gets accused of "losing focus." For Mbappé, running an entire business empire could provide endless ammunition for criticism.

The Psychological Toll of Business and Football

Another critical issue is mental exhaustion. A footballer's recovery time after games should be about relaxation, recharging, and preparing for the next match. However, managing businesses means additional responsibilities—meetings, financial decisions, strategic planning—all of which create unnecessary mental pressure.

If Mbappé doesn’t handle this balance properly, it could start affecting his game. Football requires full concentration, and Real Madrid demands absolute commitment. Any dip in form will bring scrutiny, especially if he's seen as being more focused on his businesses than his performances.

Will This Be an Issue for Mbappé at Real Madrid?

For now, Mbappé remains a world-class player, and his success at Real Madrid is almost guaranteed. But his business ventures could create a media storm at the first sign of trouble.

The Spanish press, particularly Madrid-based outlets, won’t hesitate to link any poor performance to his off-field distractions. Meanwhile, Barcelona-friendly media will use every opportunity to stir controversy and create friction between him and Madrid fans.

The next few seasons will determine whether Mbappé can balance his football career and entrepreneurial ambitions, or if his growing business empire will become a liability.

Final Thoughts

Kylian Mbappé’s footballing ability is undeniable, but his expanding business interests could become a challenge at Real Madrid. If he continues to perform, no one will question him. However, if his form dips, expect the media to turn against him. The key for Mbappé is balance—ensuring his focus remains on the pitch while managing his empire in a way that doesn’t interfere with his primary job: winning titles with Real Madrid.