Kylian Mbappe faces criticism from Real Madrid and France

Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid forward, is under mounting criticism from both his club and the France national team. The French captain is expected to lead France into the World Cup, but recent actions have drawn negative reaction from the French public. Los Blancos have reportedly spoken to Mbappe about his behaviour, signalling higher expectations. Mbappe’s trip to Stockholm while injured, instead of joining France on international duty, sparked criticism shortly after his move to Real Madrid. In a tunnel before France’s friendly with Ivory Coast, he passed Ngolo Kante and offered only a cold greeting. Later, L’Equipe reported a dressing‑room exchange in which Ousmane Dembele asked Mbappe to increase his defensive commitment. Hours after a friendly with Northern Ireland, Mbappe left the France camp for ‘personal reasons’ and was photographed with partner Ester Exposito. A holiday with Exposito in Sardinia two months earlier had already angered Real Madrid supporters, who felt his travel during injury recovery was ill‑timed. He returned to Italy minutes before Real Madrid faced RCD Espanyol in Barcelona, where paparazzi greeted him and critics called for more discretion. Denis Doyle captured the image of Mbappe after he departed the France camp, adding visual evidence to the controversy.