France forward Ousmane Dembele has come out strongly in defence of captain Kylian Mbappe ahead of Les Bleus’ FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Senegal. The Ballon d’Or winner said criticism of the Real Madrid superstar has become excessive, insisting that people often forget the human being behind one of football’s biggest names.
Mbappe enters the tournament under intense scrutiny despite another prolific campaign in front of goal. Speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca ahead of France’s opening match, Dembele said much of the criticism aimed at his long-time teammate has gone too far.
“The criticism towards him is very, very unfair,” Dembele said.
“Some people go a bit too far with the criticism of Kylian. He’s an incredible player and a very good person off the pitch.”
The France winger also suggested that every aspect of Mbappe’s behaviour is now placed under a microscope simply because of his status within the game.
“Some people overdo the criticism because he’s Kylian Mbappe. They shouldn’t keep going after him. Whether he ties his shoelaces or not, whether he pulls up his socks or not… it’s too much. He’s still a human being.”
“With the France team, he’s very good with us, he’s a leader.”
Mbappe is expected to spearhead France’s bid for a third World Cup title alongside Dembele as Didier Deschamps prepares for his final major tournament in charge of Les Bleus.
WHAT IS THE CRITICISM AROUND MBAPPE?
Mbappe has remained one of the most scrutinised footballers in the world since leaving Paris Saint-Germain for Real Madrid in 2024.
Although he continued to score regularly, Real Madrid endured a disappointing season by their standards, finishing without either the LaLiga title or the Champions League trophy. His leadership role with France has also come under the spotlight since he inherited the captaincy following Hugo Lloris’ retirement.
Dembele believes that scrutiny has now reached a point where even insignificant details become national talking points, arguing that criticism often extends beyond footballing matters.
MBAPPE, DEMBELE LEAD FRANCE IN WORLD CUP 2026
France defender Lucas Hernandez also backed Mbappe ahead of the tournament and believes the captain is ready to answer his critics on the biggest stage.
“Kylian is an extraordinary player,” Hernandez said.
“When you’re Kylian Mbappe, everyone looks at everything you do, on the pitch and off the pitch. He’s 100% motivated for the World Cup. All the criticism there has been this season, he’s going to silence it.”
Mbappe and Dembele will once again carry France’s attacking hopes as Les Bleus begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal. With Didier Deschamps set to leave after the tournament and France chasing a third world title, the spotlight will inevitably remain on their captain
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