Ousmane Dembele has defended France captain Kylian Mbappe from growing criticism, calling it unfair and excessive ahead of Les Bleus’ World Cup campaign.
France forward Ousmane Dembele has come to the defence of captain Kylian Mbappe, insisting that the criticism directed at the Real Madrid star has become excessive ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Dembele, who is enjoying one of the finest periods of his career after helping Paris Saint-Germain win the Champions League, spoke out in support of his long-time international teammate.
Mbappe has remained one of the most heavily scrutinised figures in French football since leaving Paris Saint-Germain to join Real Madrid in 2024. Despite maintaining his reputation as one of the game’s most prolific goalscorers, he has faced criticism following a season in which Madrid failed to win either La Liga or the Champions League.
Questions have also been raised about Mbappe’s leadership role with the national team since he succeeded Hugo Lloris as captain. His performances, public appearances and even minor details of his behaviour have regularly sparked debate among fans and pundits.
Dembele believes much of that criticism is unjustified. He argued that people often focus on trivial matters simply because of Mbappe’s status and popularity, forgetting that the striker remains one of the world’s elite footballers and a respected figure within the squad.
The winger praised Mbappe’s character away from the pitch and highlighted his influence within the France dressing room. According to Dembele, the Real Madrid star continues to lead by example and plays a crucial role in maintaining unity within the team.
Dembele also paid tribute to France manager Didier Deschamps, who has confirmed he will step down after the World Cup. He described Deschamps as an exceptional coach whose achievements have secured his place among the greatest managers in French football history.
Looking to the future, Dembele welcomed the possibility of Zinedine Zidane eventually taking charge of the national team. With France aiming to win a third World Cup title, Dembele believes both Mbappe and the squad have the quality to succeed, while expressing confidence that Zidane could one day continue the legacy left behind by Deschamps.
