Kylian Mbappe Discusses Racist Abuse and Defensive Criticism

Kylian Mbappe, widely recognized as one of the world's premier footballers, faces immense expectations, particularly from fans of Real Madrid. Despite a stellar season with 38 goals in 35 matches, the 27-year-old acknowledges that criticism is an inherent part of his profession.

Mbappe Responds to Defensive Effort Criticism

One recurring point of contention, especially since his move to Real Madrid, has been Mbappe's perceived lack of defensive contribution. Previously defended by France head coach Didier Deschamps, Mbappe took the opportunity in an interview on The Bridge (via Marca) to offer his own perspective.

"I am a player who defends a little less than others, and sometimes that can be an issue," Mbappe explained. "It's true that I do it less, but I've noticed that when I do commit to defending, it truly impacts the team. At Real Madrid, when I make the effort, you can see that everyone else follows suit. They criticize me for this, but it doesn't bother me because I view it as constructive criticism."

Racist Abuse After Euro 2020 Nearly Led Mbappe to Quit National Team

Mbappe also opened up about the severe abuse he endured after missing a crucial penalty during France's Euro 2020 defeat against Switzerland. The experience, he revealed, brought him to the brink of permanently leaving the French national team.

"I wanted to leave the French national team," he confessed. "I realized that I had placed France incredibly high in my priorities, but as soon as I failed, many people started calling me a monkey and insulting me. And I questioned myself: are these the people I fight for on the field?

"I fell from a great height because my first tournament with France was the 2018 World Cup – we won it, and I was somewhat of a national hero at a very young age. Then, in the very next tournament, you're hit with that kind of abuse. It's incredibly difficult to process."