2026 World Cup: His reality is different – Deschamps on Mbappe being labelled ‘dictator’

France head coach, Didier Deschamps, has dismissed claims that his captain, Kylian Mbappe is a dictator.

Mbappe has earned the reputation in football circles, over what is perceived to be a strong influence on teams he plays for and coaches. 

But Deschamps has insisted that his “reality is different”.

He said: “You guys make Kylian Mbappé seem like a dictator… the reality is the opposite.

“His public image does not reflect reality at all. Kylian has always been mature and the whole team follows him.

“I am so happy to have Kylian as captain. Whenever he speaks on and off the pitch, he represents the whole group.”