Dembélé Backs Mbappé as France Star Says Criticism Has Gone Too Far

As France prepares to begin its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, one of the team’s biggest stars has stepped forward to defend captain Kylian Mbappé from what he believes has become excessive criticism.

Image: Ousmane Dembélé, playing for France (screenshot youtube.com/@FFF)

Ousmane Dembélé, speaking ahead of France’s opening match against Senegal on June 16, argued that scrutiny surrounding Mbappé has reached unreasonable levels despite the striker remaining one of the most influential figures in world football. The comments come as France enters the tournament among the favorites to lift the trophy, with expectations once again resting heavily on its captain’s shoulders.

Mbappé has rarely been far from the spotlight throughout his career, but the scrutiny intensified following his move from Real Madrid and a season that failed to deliver the major trophies many expected. While the forward continued to score goals regularly, questions emerged regarding both his leadership and his influence within the national team setup.

Dembélé made it clear that he disagrees with much of the criticism directed at his long-time teammate.

“The criticism towards him is very, very unfair,” Dembélé said, adding that some observers have gone too far in their assessment of the France captain. He suggested that discussions around Mbappé often extend beyond footballing performances and into unnecessary criticism of his public image and behavior.

The Paris Saint-Germain star emphasized that Mbappé remains an important figure for both club and country and continues to set an example within the squad.

Captain Under Constant Scrutiny

Since inheriting the France captaincy following the international retirement of goalkeeper and World Cup winner Hugo Lloris, Mbappé has faced increased responsibility and expectation. Every performance, interview, and public appearance tends to generate intense discussion among supporters and pundits alike.

Recent criticism has focused not only on results but also on whether Mbappé possesses the leadership qualities required to guide France through another major tournament. Some former players and commentators have questioned aspects of his captaincy, while others have pointed to France’s occasional inconsistency in recent competitions.

Despite those debates, Mbappé remains the central figure in Didier Deschamps’ plans as France pursues a third World Cup title, starting its journey from Group I, for which it’s the biggest favorite, along with Spain, according to outright odds on the best betting sites for the World Cup.

Hernandez Echoes Dembélé’s Support

Dembélé wasn’t alone in defending the captain. Defender Lucas Hernandez also expressed confidence in Mbappé’s mindset and commitment ahead of the tournament.

According to Hernandez, the Real Madrid forward remains highly motivated and determined to lead France deep into the competition. The defender dismissed suggestions that outside criticism would negatively affect the squad, insisting that the team’s focus remains firmly on performances on the pitch.

The support from senior teammates reflects the strong backing Mbappé continues to enjoy within the dressing room despite the external noise surrounding him.

Deschamps Era Nearing Its Final Chapter

The discussion around Mbappé comes at a significant moment for French football. This World Cup is expected to be Didier Deschamps’ final tournament in charge after more than a decade at the helm.

During his tenure, Deschamps guided France to World Cup glory in 2018 and another final appearance in 2022, cementing his place among the country’s most successful coaches. Dembélé paid tribute to the manager’s achievements and acknowledged the impact he has had on the current generation of players.

With France beginning another World Cup journey, the squad hopes attention will soon shift away from debates surrounding individual players and toward the team’s pursuit of international success. For Dembélé, however, one message was clear: regardless of outside opinions, Mbappé remains a vital leader for “Les Bleus.”