With almost half the season still to play, Kylian Mbappé is rapidly closing in on one of football’s most impressive modern scoring milestones — the most penalties scored in a single season across Europe’s top five leagues in the 21st century.
The French superstar is currently sitting on 12 penalty goals in just 30 matches (2025/26 season), putting him within touching distance of the all-time modern benchmark. If his current scoring rate continues, Mbappé could rewrite penalty scoring history before the campaign ends.
The Current 21st Century Penalty Record
The benchmark Mbappé is chasing belongs to Ciro Immobile, who scored:
- 15 penalties
- 44 matches played
- 2019/20 season
Several other elite players have come close:
- Cristiano Ronaldo – 14 penalties (multiple seasons)
- Lionel Messi – 14 penalties (2011/12)
- Jorginho – 14 penalties (2019/20)
Breaking this record would place Mbappé among the most efficient penalty scorers of the modern era.
Why Mbappé’s Penalty Numbers Are Even More Impressive
What makes this season unique is not just how many penalties Mbappé has scored — it’s how many he has earned himself.
Key Stat Highlight
- Mbappé has won 5 of his 12 penalties himself
- This is the highest self-earned penalty total among players in Europe’s top five leagues this season
This shows:
- Explosive pace forcing defensive errors
- High attacking involvement inside the box
- Constant pressure on defenders
Mbappé’s 2025/26 Season Form Explained
Mbappé’s current numbers suggest he is operating at peak attacking efficiency:
Goal Threat
- Elite movement inside the penalty area
- Calm finishing under pressure
- High conversion rate from the spot
Tactical Role
At Real Madrid, Mbappé is:
- Primary penalty taker
- Main attacking focal point
- Central to chance creation and final-third pressure
Can Mbappé Break the Record This Season?
If Mbappé maintains his current pace:
- Needs 4 more penalties to equal the record
- Needs 5 more penalties to set a new record
With nearly half the season left and Real Madrid competing across multiple competitions, opportunities are likely to come.
What This Means for Modern Football
Penalty scoring records often reflect:
- Attacking dominance
- Team tactical style
- Player responsibility and composure
Mbappé ticking all three boxes highlights why he remains one of the most feared forwards in world football today.
Final Verdict
Kylian Mbappé is not just chasing goals — he is chasing history. With his current form, confidence, and attacking involvement, the record for most penalties scored in a single 21st-century season is realistically within reach.
If he continues drawing fouls and converting from the spot, this could become one of the most statistically dominant penalty seasons in modern football history.