Mbappé Gives a Candid Interview on the National Team, Rape Allegations, and Messi
Kylian Mbappé gave an extensive interview to French TV channel Canal+, sharing his thoughts on various topics. The 25-year-old footballer said it was time to speak openly and finally be heard. Here are the key highlights.
On the French National Team and Real Madrid
“Euro 2020 was filled with lies from start to finish. People called me a monkey — no problem. They blamed me for failures — no problem! I’ve always prioritized the French national team, given everything to represent it in the best way possible. I broke my nose for the team, yet people say I don’t care. I am focused on Real Madrid, but I’ve never turned my back on the national team.”
On Missing Recent National Team Call-Ups
“My love for the French national team hasn’t changed. I miss it because it’s been a while since I’ve been there. In September, I spoke with the coach beforehand and asked not to be called up because I had just arrived in Madrid, and my summer break was very short. In October, I was injured and wasn’t on the list. We talked again, and the coach decided it was best not to call me up in November. He’s the boss, and I follow his decisions. I wanted to join the team but can’t say why I wasn’t called up.”
On Depression
“I don’t have depression. I’ve had moments when I was exhausted, but I’ve never been depressed. Some people truly suffer from depression and need help. At one point, I was drained — there was no rest, and I was frustrated with my career. But this (talk of depression) is just a conversation for the sake of it; there’s no real reason to bring it up.”
On Trophies
“I’ve already achieved a lot. What major trophy is left? The Champions League — I’m in the best club to win it. Then there’s the European Championship. And why not participate in the Olympics one day? Individual awards matter too — of course, I’m talking about the Ballon d’Or. I know what I need to do to win it — many things, both on and off the pitch. If I do everything required, I will become the best.”
On His Frustration with Messi
“I respect Messi because he’s a living legend, but I was mad after the World Cup final! At the first PSG training session after Qatar, we broke the ice. The first thing we did was laugh. He said, ‘You’ve already won it once, now it’s my turn.’ We talked about the final, and I think it brought us closer. I’ve learned a lot from him — he does everything perfectly. I’ve gained more during training with him than in matches. I didn’t feel awkward or shy around him. I would go up and ask, ‘How do you do this?’”
On the Rape Allegations
“I didn’t see this coming at all and was shocked. It’s a misunderstanding. I haven’t received any court summons — nothing. I never felt involved in this case. I know as much as anyone else does. Some people talked about it in the press, but the Swedish authorities haven’t said anything. I had five days off and was supposed to go somewhere more private. The coach (Carlo Ancelotti) told me, ‘Go somewhere where no one will see you.’ I replied, ‘I’m Kylian. I’ll be noticed anywhere.’”
On Relationships
“There was a time when I was in love with a woman — I hope it happens again. I was meant to experience those moments, but I’m unsure if the person next to me would be ready for it.”
Published by Patrick Jane
09.12.2024