Real Madrid has seen several stars shine in their debut seasons. Kylian Mbappé leads with 40 goals, breaking Iván Zamorano’s 37-goal mark from 1992–93. Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruud van Nistelrooy both netted 33 goals, showcasing their immediate impact and setting high standards in their first seasons at the club.
4. Ruud van Nistelrooy – 33 Goals (2006-07)
Ruud van Nistelrooy joined Real Madrid from Manchester United in 2006, arriving as an established goal-scorer. However, few anticipated just how impactful he would be in his debut season. The Dutch striker netted 33 goals across all competitions, including 25 in LaLiga, earning him the prestigious Pichichi Trophy.
Van Nistelrooy’s predatory instincts and clinical finishing proved vital, helping Real Madrid secure the league title. His incredible scoring form instantly endeared him to the fans and established him as the team’s most influential player that season.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo – 33 Goals (2009-10)
Cristiano Ronaldo is widely regarded as the greatest player in Real Madrid’s history. Arriving from Manchester United in 2009 for a then-world record fee, the Portuguese superstar carried immense expectations. However, Ronaldo thrived under pressure, delivering a sensational debut season with 33 goals across all competitions, including 26 in LaLiga.
With explosive pace, trademark free-kicks, and powerful headers, Ronaldo made an immediate impact. His debut campaign signaled the beginning of a new era at the Bernabeu—one that would ultimately redefine the club’s legacy with unparalleled success.
2. Iván Zamorano – 37 Goals (1992-93)
Chilean striker Iván Zamorano ranks second on the list of top scorers in a debut season for Real Madrid. In the 1992/93 campaign, he netted an impressive 37 goals after arriving from Sevilla. Renowned for his aerial dominance and relentless goal-scoring instinct, Zamorano quickly became a key figure at the club.
His efforts were instrumental in helping Real Madrid lift both the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa that season. Zamorano’s impact and passion made him an instant fan favourite in his first year at the Bernabeu.
1. Kylian Mbappé – 40 Goals* (2024-25)
Kylian Mbappé was long pursued by Real Madrid, with the club tracking him for several seasons before finally signing him in the summer of 2024. Arriving amid immense hype and pressure, the French superstar lived up to expectations by scoring 40 goals in his debut campaign, surpassing Iván Zamorano’s long-standing record with a hat-trick against Barcelona.
Despite Real Madrid falling short in major competitions this season, Mbappé has seamlessly become the focal point of the team. His explosive start promises a bright future for both him and the club.
