Deschamps Addresses “Dictator” Mbappé Jokes

France coach Didier Deschamps has firmly stated that team captain Kylian Mbappé is far from being a dictator among his teammates. This declaration comes amidst numerous jokes and insinuations regarding the star striker's supposedly authoritarian attitude towards other players in the French squad.

“You call Mbappé a dictator, but he is actually the complete opposite. His public image is often misunderstood. He is mature, and the entire team respects and follows him. Mbappé speaks for everyone, both on and off the pitch. I am proud to have him as our captain,” Deschamps commented after France's 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup.

Deschamps also revealed that he instructed two of his players to shield Mbappé from potential provocations by opponents after the final whistle of last night's match. “I remember in 2018 against Uruguay, I had to substitute him because their players were practically tearing him apart. That’s why I asked two of our strongest players on the bench to protect him immediately after the game, because you never know. The match is never truly over, and I don't want to lose any of my players,” the French tactician explained.