Kylian Mbappe explains decision to obscure Ceuta support shirt
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe clarifies why he and Vinicius Junior rolled up their shirts during a pre-match tribute for Ceuta.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: Balkan Photos
Ahead of the La Liga fixture between Elche and Real Madrid, both teams agreed to wear shirts featuring the message "We're all from Ceuta". The initiative was designed to highlight the humanitarian situation in the Spanish enclave following a mass migration influx from Morocco in July.
However, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Konate rolled the garments up to their chests during the pre-match presentation, deliberately obscuring the text. This action drew significant scrutiny in the Spanish media. Speaking to Diario AS, Mbappe clarified his stance, emphasizing that he remains in solidarity with the people of Ceuta while also acknowledging the suffering of other migrants.
I want to explain this clearly, so people understand. It was a decision made by the clubs, to wear the shirt. The first thing I want to say is that I stand in full solidarity with Ceuta and all the victims, because before being a player, I'm a human being. Kylian Mbappe
The forward added that he does not want to prioritize one form of suffering over another and expressed a desire for a peaceful resolution. Similar tensions have affected other players, such as Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli, who also faced backlash for his involvement in a pre-match tribute.
Focus within the Real Madrid camp has now returned to football. Following their victory against Elche, Jose Mourinho's squad is preparing for a crucial test against local rivals Atletico Madrid this Sunday as they continue their title push.