Kylian Mbappe, one of the most talented and influential players in world football, is currently facing a wave of criticism from fans and former players in his home country.
The controversy centers around his decision to skip France’s Nations League fixtures against Israel and Belgium, despite being fit to play for his club, Real Madrid.
This development has not only raised questions about Kylian Mbappe’s commitment to the national team but also sparked a broader debate about his role and responsibilities as the captain of Les Bleus.
Mbappe’s Decision: The Root of the Controversy
Kylian Mbappe sustained a muscle injury last month, sidelining him temporarily. However, he made his return to action in Real Madrid’s Champions League match against Villarreal last Wednesday, coming off the bench.
Despite his return to fitness, France coach Didier Deschamps opted not to include him in the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, citing a lack of preparation and too few minutes played since his injury.
This decision comes as a surprise to many, especially since Mbappe started for Real Madrid in their LaLiga match against Villarreal just days after his Champions League appearance.
The timing and inconsistency have raised eyebrows, particularly among French football fans and pundits, leading to a perception that the forward prioritized club duty over his national responsibilities.
Former Players Weigh In: The Criticism Mounts
Former France international Maxime Bossis expressed his concerns about Mbappe’s decision to play for his club but not for his country. In an interview with L’Equipe, he stated, “Either you’re injured, and you don’t play with your club and you’re not called up to the national team. But when you come off the bench in the Champions League and start a league game, it makes things fuzzy.”
Bossis’s remarks highlight the growing skepticism about Kylian Mbappe’s commitment. For a player who is now the captain of the French national team, the expectation is that he should lead by example, showcasing his dedication not just to Real Madrid but to the national team as well.
The perception that Kylian Mbappe may have chosen club duty over representing his country has led to a backlash, suggesting that he might not be setting the right example for his teammates or the fans.
A Captain’s Responsibility: Comparing Mbappe to Griezmann
The controversy becomes even more intense when considering Kylian Mbappe’s status as the captain of Les Bleus.
He was handed the captain’s armband ahead of Antoine Griezmann, who recently announced his retirement from international football. Griezmann’s departure left a gap not only in the squad’s attacking prowess but also in leadership.
Griezmann’s commitment to France was never in question; he played an astonishing 84 consecutive matches for the national team between 2017 and 2024. This record demonstrates his unwavering dedication, something the French supporters have come to appreciate and admire.
With Griezmann no longer available, many expected Kylian Mbappe to step into his shoes and carry the same level of passion and commitment.
However, Fabien Bonnet, a spokesperson for Irresistibles Français—the main French supporters’ group—expressed disappointment in Mbappe’s recent actions. “As a captain, Mbappe must be an example for the fans, and he has not been,” Bonnet told L’Equipe. He further added that with Griezmann gone, the team may have lost its real captain, implying that Kylian Mbappe’s leadership has fallen short of expectations.
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The Challenges of Being a Star Player and Captain
Kylian Mbappe’s situation is indeed complicated. As one of the best players in the world and the face of French football, the pressure on him to perform and lead is immense. However, with that star power comes a responsibility to balance club and national commitments, a challenge that has tested many top players before him.
France’s national team and its supporters have a proud tradition of valuing loyalty and dedication, especially when it comes to their star players.
The comparison with former French greats like Michel Platini—who would often play for the national team despite injury—adds another layer of expectation.
When Platini was struggling with injuries, the national team still relied on his presence, reinforcing the idea that a captain’s role extends beyond just playing the game; it’s about being a symbol of commitment and passion.
Deschamps’ Decision and the Implications for Mbappe
Didier Deschamps’ decision to exclude Kylian Mbappe from the squad was likely a tactical move aimed at protecting his star player from further injury, given the upcoming crucial matches for Real Madrid.
However, this choice has inadvertently fueled speculation and criticism, as it suggests a lack of alignment between club and country priorities.
Deschamps’ statement that Kylian Mbappe lacked preparation due to limited matches hints at a cautious approach, but it also opens up the possibility of the French team relying less on Mbappe, especially if he continues to prioritize club over country. As the national coach, Deschamps must balance keeping his star players fit while also ensuring they fulfill their national duties.
A Turning Point for Mbappe’s Legacy in France?
The criticism aimed at Kylian Mbappe isn’t just about missing one or two games; it’s about the broader message it sends to the fans and his teammates. As the captain, he is expected to set the standard, and this situation has left many questioning whether he is the right man for the job.
His decision to play for Real Madrid while being unavailable for France could tarnish his reputation and create a divide among the fans who expect their captain to be fully committed to Les Bleus.
What’s Next for Mbappe and the French National Team?
France currently sits second in Group A of the Nations League and faces Israel in Budapest on Thursday before traveling to Belgium next Monday.
While Deschamps has insisted that his decision was based on Mbappe’s physical condition and preparation levels, the controversy is unlikely to die down soon. Mbappe must work to rebuild trust with the fans and prove that his commitment to the national team remains as strong as ever.
As a young and influential player, Kylian Mbappe still has the chance to steer his legacy in the right direction. However, the next few international breaks will be crucial in showing whether he is ready to embrace the full responsibility that comes with being the captain of France.
If he can rise to the challenge, he may yet become the leader that French fans want to see—one who exemplifies both talent and commitment.
For now, though, the spotlight remains on Mbappe, and the pressure to deliver for Les Bleus has never been higher.
