Kylian Mbappé Speaks Out on Racism and Criticism
“People tell you that I don’t care about the French team, that I focus on Real Madrid, but I NEVER gave up on the French team,” he clarified
French football star Kylian Mbappé has opened up about the challenges he faced during and after the European Championships, revealing his struggles with racism, criticism, and accusations questioning his commitment to the national team.
Speaking candidly, the Paris Saint-Germain forward expressed his frustration over the treatment he received from fans and media in the aftermath of France’s performance in the tournament.
Mbappé revealed that he was subjected to racial abuse, with some individuals referring to him using derogatory slurs.
“At the Euros, lies from the first day to the last day. I was called a monkey,” Mbappé shared, shedding light on the abuse that he endured.
Despite the hurtful comments, the 24-year-old maintained that he bore no resentment toward those who criticized him for France’s elimination from the tournament. “They blamed me for the loss, no problem,” he said.
The striker’s missed penalty during a decisive shootout against Switzerland in the Round of 16 drew widespread criticism, with some fans unfairly accusing him of not being fully committed to the French national team.
Addressing these claims, Mbappé stated emphatically, “I always want to put the French team at the top. I did everything to represent the best I could. I broke my nose.”
Mbappé also dismissed rumors suggesting he prioritized a move to Real Madrid over his dedication to the national team.
“People tell you that I don’t care about the French team, that I focus on Real Madrid, but I NEVER gave up on the French team,” he clarified, reaffirming his loyalty to representing his country on the international stage.
Throughout his career, Mbappé has been known for his professionalism and determination to elevate both his personal game and the teams he represents.
Despite the hardships, he continues to be a key figure for Les Bleus, proving his worth during France’s run to the final in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he was awarded the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer.
Mbappé’s revelations highlight the ongoing issues of racism and public pressure in football, sparking important conversations about the treatment of athletes and the need for greater support mechanisms.
As one of the brightest stars in global football, his commitment to France and the sport remains unwavering, even in the face of adversity.