Overview
- Press coverage accelerated on June 10 as scrutiny of Kylian Mbappé reached new intensity in the week before France’s opener, with outlets compiling recent on- and off-field concerns.
- Mbappé will captain France at a World Cup for the first time, carrying heavy expectations because of his past tournament pedigree and high goal totals for Real Madrid.
- Multiple reports describe awkward squad moments, a controversial travel decision while injured, a short camp absence followed by paparazzi photos, and dressing-room exchanges that have fed criticism of his commitment.
- Spanish media say Real Madrid officials have privately discussed his behaviour with him, and several outlets characterize the club atmosphere as tense over his role and attitude.
- Respected figures such as Arsène Wenger have publicly defended Mbappé and predicted a strong showing, but fan backlash — including a widely reported online petition — means his tournament form could quickly reshape his public standing.