Ousmane Dembele defends Kylian Mbappe from 'unfair' criticism

France forward Ousmane Dembele has publicly defended his national team captain Kylian Mbappe, claiming that the intense criticism directed at the Real Madrid striker has gone too far.

Mbappe has faced significant scrutiny both in Spain and in his home nation since taking over the captaincy in 2023. Dembele suggested that the negative focus on his teammate has transcended reasonable football analysis.

The criticism towards him is very, very unfair. Some people go a bit too far with the criticism of Kylian. He's an incredible player and a very good person off the pitch. Some people overdo the criticism because he's Kylian Mbappe. They shouldn't keep going after him. Ousmane Dembele

Dembele also paid tribute to France coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to step down following the 2026 World Cup. He described Deschamps as an exceptional coach and a legend. Addressing the possibility of Zinedine Zidane one day succeeding him, Dembele noted that he is convinced the former France great would do a fantastic job.