France forward Ousmane Dembele has come to the defence of captain Kylian Mbappe, insisting the criticism directed at the Real Madrid star has become excessive and unfair.
Mbappe has faced intense scrutiny in both France and Spain following a difficult season for Real Madrid, who finished the campaign without a major trophy despite high expectations surrounding the French superstar’s arrival.
Speaking to Marca, Dembele expressed frustration at what he believes has become a relentless focus on every aspect of Mbappe’s life and performances.
“The criticism towards him is very, very unfair. Some people go a bit too far with the criticism of Kylian,” Dembele said.
The Paris Saint-Germain winger praised both Mbappe’s character and leadership qualities, arguing that the striker is judged more harshly simply because of his status as one of the world’s biggest football stars.
“He’s an incredible player and a very good person off the pitch. Some people overdo the criticism because he’s Kylian Mbappe. They shouldn’t keep going after him.”
Dembele suggested that even trivial matters involving the France captain become talking points.
“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.”
The comments come just days before France begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Senegal.
Dembele and Mbappe are expected to spearhead Didier Deschamps’ attack as Les Bleus look to reclaim the trophy they won in 2018 before finishing runners-up in 2022.
While Mbappe remains France’s main attacking threat, Dembele enters the tournament in sensational form after helping Paris Saint-Germain secure a second consecutive UEFA Champions League title.
His performances have also strengthened his case for this year’s Ballon d’Or award.
