Mbappe’s Ballon d’Or Comments Cause Rift in France Squad, Leaving Dembele Feeling Betrayed
Mbappe's Remarks Divide France Squad, Dembele Feels Betrayed
Kylian Mbappe's recent comments about the Ballon d'Or have reportedly caused a split within the France national team. Ousmane Dembele is said to be particularly upset, viewing Mbappe's words as a betrayal. This tension has led to two distinct groups forming in the squad ahead of Zinedine Zidane's debut matches as manager.
Mbappe's Statements Spark Anger
The atmosphere among the French players has grown strained following an exchange between Mbappe and Dembele. Mbappe claimed he was always seen as the favored player and implied that Dembele's career was impacted by injuries. After Paris Saint-Germain's 1-0 victory over Brest on Sunday, Dembele responded sharply, saying, "I was never the chosen one, I worked hard and was rewarded with a wonderful year with Paris."
L'Equipe reports that these remarks pushed Dembele to break his usual silence, as he had been bothered by several of Mbappe’s past comments but chose not to respond publicly until now.
Dembele Feels Deeply Hurt by Captain’s Words
Former player and pundit Jerome Rothen explained that Dembele felt deeply hurt by Mbappe's statements, seeing them as a personal slight. Rothen described the situation on RMC Sport, saying: "Dembélé took it very badly, that’s a certainty, he is very angry with Kylian Mbappé. It is a form of betrayal for him. The words are strong but that is exactly how he takes it."According to L'Equipe, Mbappe was surprised by the intensity of Dembele’s reaction.
Two Factions Emerge Within the Team
The unrest isn’t limited to Dembele; other players are reportedly frustrated with Mbappe’s captaincy. What was once a unified squad now shows signs of division. Some players sympathize more with Dembele, while others remain loyal to Mbappe, causing a split in the dressing room.
Rothen further highlighted the divide: "I am told that there are a lot of players in the French team who do not understand, once again, all his statements, who are more in team Dembele than team Mbappe, yet it is the same team, but apparently there are two teams now."
Zidane Faces Tough Start Amid Tensions
Reports suggest Mbappe and Dembele have not spoken since the disagreement. With Zinedine Zidane set to announce his first squad this Friday, he will have to navigate this fragile situation carefully. When the players meet at Clairefontaine for the upcoming international break, the new coach must work to heal the rift and restore unity within the team.
