Kylian Mbappe's arrival at Real Madrid is the hottest story in world football right now. However, the French forward isn't just popular on the pitch, he has a vast array of fans and marketing deals which paint a picture of an icon who the youth of today can identify with.

Exploring Mbappe's nicknames sheds light on this popularity and influence.

The 25-year-old striker has garnered a massive following on social media, often being referred to with the 'emoji' of a tortoise, symbolizing his swift pace and agility on the field.

Like many footballers, Mbappe has acquired various nicknames, with one of the most notable being "Ninja Turtle."

Why is Mbappe called a Ninja Turtle?

Mbappe earned the moniker "Ninja Turtle" during his time at PSG after joining the club from AS Monaco in 2017.

Upon his arrival, his new teammates in Paris greeted him with playful banter, which spilled over onto social media platforms. The PSG dressing room, in particular, humorously associated Mbappe with the Ninja Turtles, a popular children's television show.

Petit cadeau du capitaine @tsilva3 pour @KMbappe 🎁😂😂😂🐢 @PSG_inside pic.twitter.com/PtuQeDea66

— layvin kurzawa (@layvinkurzawa) November 21, 2017

A notable incident during the 2018 World Cup in Russia cemented Mbappe's nickname. Thiago Silva, one of his PSG teammates, famously gifted him a Ninja Turtle mask enclosed in a Dior box, adding to the ongoing jests.

Why is he called Donatello?

Donatello, one of the four ninja turtles, bears a resemblance to Mbappe, leading to the footballer also being referred to as Donatello. This nickname, born out of humor, has since become synonymous with Mbappé's persona, recognized globally by fans and storytellers alike.

What began as light-hearted teasing among teammates has now become an enduring aspect of Mbappe's identity, showcasing his affable nature and embracing the playful side of football culture.