Dembélé defends Mbappé ahead of World Cup: "They're overdoing the criticism"

From Boston, where the France team is preparing for its World Cup 2026 campaign, Ousmane Dembélé gave an interview to Spanish daily Marca, published on Friday. The 2025 Ballon d’Or winner defended Kylian Mbappé, whose mixed season at Real Madrid has drawn considerable criticism.

“They’ve been very unfair. They’re overdoing it a bit with the criticism of Kylian because he’s an incredible player,” said the PSG forward. Dembélé, who has known Mbappé for many years in the national team, stressed the human dimension of the France captain: “He’s a very good person off the pitch. There’s no need to go after him.”

The Paris winger also joked about the sometimes trivial nature of the reproaches leveled at his teammate. “Whether he ties his laces, whether he doesn’t tie his laces, whether he wears his socks or doesn’t wear them. It’s way too much, because he’s still a human being and he’s a player of exceptional quality.” Dembélé emphasized Mbappé’s central role within the France squad: “He’s very good with us, he’s a leader, the captain.”

Mbappé, who was decisive at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, will be one of the most scrutinized figures at this 2026 edition. France begins its campaign on June 16 against Senegal.