France forward Ousmane Dembele has thrown his support behind captain Kylian Mbappe, saying the criticism directed at the Real Madrid star has gone too far ahead of Les Bleus’ opening match at the FIFA World Cup.
Mbappe enters the tournament under intense scrutiny after a difficult season in Spain, where Real Madrid ended the campaign without lifting a major trophy. The 27-year-old has also carried the responsibility of captaining France since 2023, placing him under constant public and media attention.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca and quoted by BBC on Saturday, Dembele said much of the criticism aimed at his international teammate had become disproportionate.
“The criticism of him is very, very unfair. Some people go too far in criticizing Kylian,” Dembele said.
The Paris Saint-Germain winger insisted Mbappe remains one of the world’s elite footballers while also being a respected figure within the France squad.
“He’s an extraordinary player and a very good person off the pitch. Some people go too far in criticizing him because he’s Kylian Mbappe. They shouldn’t constantly criticize him,” Dembele said.
Dembele also expressed frustration over the level of scrutiny surrounding the France captain, arguing that even trivial details about Mbappe often become subjects of public debate.
“Whether he ties his boots or not, whether he pulls up his socks or not… it’s too much. He’s still a human being,” Dembele said.
France will begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal on Tuesday before facing Iraq and Norway in the remaining Group F fixtures. Dembele and Mbappe are widely expected to spearhead Didier Deschamps’ attack as France chase a third World Cup title.
The pair have formed the backbone of France’s frontline across several major international tournaments, with their pace, creativity and finishing expected to play a decisive role once again.
Dembele also highlighted Mbappe’s leadership qualities within the national team, saying the forward commands respect inside the dressing room.
“With the France team, he’s very good to all of us. He’s a leader,” Dembele said.
Dembele arrives at the World Cup in impressive form after another outstanding season with Paris Saint-Germain. The winger has emerged as one of the leading contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or following PSG’s second consecutive UEFA Champions League triumph, adding further firepower to a France side regarded as one of the tournament favorites.
