Kylian Mbappé has reiterated his commitment to the French national team, insisting that “there’s nothing bigger than the national team,” despite missing recent matches.
The 2018 World Cup champion was absent from Nations League games against Israel and Italy last month. Coach Didier Deschamps noted that it was “better that way” due to Mbappé’s physical and mental struggles. The forward also missed a previous gathering in October due to a minor thigh injury, although he continued to play for Real Madrid.
During a television interview with Canal Plus on Sunday night, Mbappé expressed his unwavering love for the national team. “I’ve always said there’s nothing bigger than the national team,” he stated.
Deschamps’ comments regarding Mbappé’s mental state led to speculation about potential depression. However, the player clarified, “There are people who really are in a depression and who should be helped. This is not a subject which should be taken lightly. I am not going to claim that (I had a depression).” He also addressed perceptions of his leadership, suggesting he faces greater scrutiny as captain compared to his predecessor, Hugo Lloris. “I’ve always put it above anything else. I even gave my nose,” he said, referencing a broken nose sustained during the European Championship.
As he approaches his 26th birthday on December 20, Mbappé ranks third on France’s all-time scoring list with 48 goals, trailing only Thierry Henry (51) and Olivier Giroud (57). Despite a stellar hat trick in the 2022 World Cup final, his recent scoring rate has dipped, with just two goals in his last 12 appearances for Les Bleus.
Mbappé explained his decision to speak out now, saying, “When you’re a star, if you don’t talk, people talk in your place.” He also addressed recent rumors surrounding a rape investigation in Sweden for the first time.
Despite a challenging start to his career at Madrid, he expressed contentment in Spain after a decade with Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain. “You’re jumping into the unknown because you’ve never left your country,” he noted. “I always dreamed of playing for Madrid. Always. It’s the biggest club in the world.”
Since joining Real Madrid, expectations have been high, but he has scored only 11 goals in 21 appearances. His performances have included notable penalty misses against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, and he faced criticism for being caught offside during a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona. While coach Carlo Ancelotti has defended him, he acknowledged that Mbappé “can play better.” The forward did not elaborate on his individual performance but recognized that Madrid’s overall play has “not been at the level” expected by fans.
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