Kylian Mbappe has been accused of betrayal and was lambasted for a “catastrophic” end to his Paris Saint-Germain career after impressing for France.
♦ Mbappe fired France to a 3-0 win
♦ Was involved in two goals for Les Bleus
♦ Criticised for poor his attitude at PSG
WHAT HAPPENED?
Mbappe put up an impressive show in France’s 3-0 victory over Luxembourg in Metz. Despite his exceptional performance, which included a stellar goal and an assist, the reactions from some quarters were less than celebratory.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Former French international Jerome Rothen voiced his frustrations, lamenting that Mbappe did not exhibit the same level of dedication and spirit throughout his season with his former club PSG as he displayed with Les Bleus after confirming his move to Real Madrid.
The French legend contrasted Mbappe’s joyous and engaged demeanour during the match in Metz with his perceived lacklustre attitude during his time with the Parisians and criticised the apparent disconnect between the club’s fans and his team-mates during the last few turbulent months which also saw a conspicuous reduction in his playing time.
WHAT ROTHEN SAID
In an interview with RMC Sport, Rothen said: “Everything we saw yesterday, it is everything we haven’t seen throughout the season at PSG. The smile and the communion with the supporters, the very essence of football.
“For five months, when Kylian does not make enough effort, it is not a problem of the coach, of the leaders, of the president, of the supporters… It is just a problem of respect. When you put yourself in the category of the best players in the world, you have to have the attitude that goes with it. You have to fight for your teammates, for your country, for your club.
“I think he betrayed us everything. Throughout the season it was catastrophic from start to finish in terms of images and communication. I’m really angry with him because when I see him in the French team with the banana, it’s not possible.”
WHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?
As Mbappe prepares to don the white jersey of Real Madrid, the echoes of his time at PSG will undoubtedly follow him. The accusations of betrayal, the critiques of his professionalism, and the contrasting images of his performances for club and country will be part of the legacy he leaves behind in Paris.
However, every criticism will be put to bed if he fires France to another European Championship crown in Germany. They will begin their campaign against Austria on June 17.