Mbappe's Ballon d'Or Comments Stir Tension, Dembele Feels Betrayed in France Squad
Mbappe's Ballon d'Or Remarks Ignite Rift Among France Players
Kylian Mbappe's recent statements about the Ballon d'Or have reportedly caused a significant split within the French national team. Ousmane Dembele is said to be deeply upset, feeling betrayed by his captain’s comments, which has created two clear factions inside the squad ahead of Zinedine Zidane's first matches as coach.
Dembele Reacts Strongly to Mbappe's Words
The atmosphere around the France team has become tense after Mbappe claimed he was always seen as the 'chosen one,' implying that Dembele’s career path was hampered by injuries. Following Paris Saint-Germain's 1-0 victory over Brest, Dembele responded sharply: "I was never the chosen one, I worked hard and was rewarded with a wonderful year with Paris."
According to L'Equipe, this exchange was the last straw for Dembele, who had generally kept quiet despite growing irritation at some of Mbappe's remarks over the years.
Dembele Feels Deeply Hurt by Captain's Attitude
Former player and commentator Jerome Rothen shared on RMC Sport that Dembele is extremely angry, interpreting Mbappe's comments as a personal betrayal. The resentment stems from Mbappe appearing to look down on his teammates.
"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," Rothen explained.
L'Equipe also reported that Mbappe did not expect such a strong response from Dembele.
Squad Divided Into Two Camps
The tension isn't limited to Dembele alone; several players are reportedly losing patience with Mbappe. The cohesion that once united the squad seems to be fracturing into rival groups. Many players find the ongoing media focus on Mbappe’s individual accolades confusing and alienating.
Rothen added, "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 a Delicate Task
Since the incident, Mbappe and Dembele reportedly haven’t spoken, leaving Zinedine Zidane with a challenging environment as he prepares his first squad list this Friday. When both arrive at Clairefontaine for the next international break, the new coach must work quickly to mend relationships and restore unity.
