Ousmane Dembélé speaks candidly about Kylian Mbappé ahead of France's campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ousmane Dembélé, the French national team winger, came forward to defend his compatriot, striker Kylian Mbappé, saying Mbappé has been overly criticized despite being an ordinary human being. He praised both his good character and leadership qualities.
Dembélé said, "The criticism directed at him is extremely unfair. Some people criticize Kylian excessively. He is an excellent player and also a very good person off the pitch."
"Some criticize him simply because he is Kylian Mbappé. I think sometimes it goes too far. Whether he ties his shoelaces or pulls up his socks, it's really too much because, after all, he is just a human being."
"Within the French national team, he fits in very well. He truly has strong leadership qualities."
Both Dembélé and Mbappé are expected to start in France's opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Senegal on the upcoming Tuesday, followed by games against Iraq and Norway, respectively.