Dembele calls for restraint in Mbappe scrutiny ahead of World Cup 2026

France forward Ousmane Dembele has publicly intervened in the ongoing debate surrounding national team captain Kylian Mbappe, stating that the scrutiny directed at the Real Madrid striker has gone too far. Speaking to the Spanish newspaper Marca, Dembele described the intensity of the criticism as “very, very unfair,” particularly regarding the focus on minor personal habits such as tying shoelaces or adjusting socks.

The comments come as France prepares for their World Cup 2026 opener against Senegal, with both Dembele and Mbappe expected to start the match. Mbappe has faced significant pressure since taking over the captaincy in 2023, compounded by Real Madrid’s failure to win the La Liga title or the Champions League during his two seasons at the club.

Dembele emphasised Mbappe’s value to the squad beyond his on-pitch performance. He described the striker as an “incredible player” and a “very good person off the pitch,” noting that his leadership within the France team remains strong despite the external noise. “Some people overdo the criticism because he's Kylian Mbappe. They shouldn't keep going after him,” Dembele said.

In addition to defending his teammate, Dembele offered high praise for outgoing head coach Didier Deschamps, who announced last year that he will step down after the tournament. Dembele called Deschamps an “exceptional coach” and a “legend” among national team coaches, acknowledging his role in guiding France to World Cup victories in 2018 and 2022.

Dembele also expressed support for former France star Zinedine Zidane as a potential successor to Deschamps. Although Zidane has repeatedly declined to discuss the position while Deschamps remains in charge, Dembele stated he is convinced the former player would do a “fantastic job” if he were to take the bench. Dembele himself is currently a contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or after helping Paris St-Germain win successive Champions League titles.