Ballon d’Or twist: Mbappé's remarks spark tension with Dembélé
On Sunday evening, Paris Saint‑Germain were seen winning 0‑1 against Stade Brest, after which Ousmane Dembélé responded to the recent Ballon d’Or statements of Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé, which heightened the tension between the two Frenchmen and sparked discussion about who the next winner will be.
Mbappé’s Ballon d’Or‑statements spark controversy
Kylian Mbappé, striker for Real Madrid, recently claimed that he has the right to win the Ballon d’Or for the first time. He stated in an interview last weekend that he has always been seen as the chosen one and wondered why Ousmane Dembélé only became a star later. “He was always seen as a talented player. I have always been seen as the chosen one. I was immediately at the top, very early on,” Mbappé said.
The remarks were followed by a response from Ousmane Dembélé after the PSG victory over Stade Brest (0‑1) on Sunday evening. Dembélé emphasized that he has always worked hard and has never been the chosen one. “You know, I have always sat at the back of the class and worked hard. Throughout my entire career I have said nothing about it, I have worked incredibly hard. I have never been the chosen one,” Dembélé said.
L'Équipe reports that the winner of last year and his entourage do not appreciate Mbappé’s words. The newspaper states that Dembélé’s surroundings – in the dressing room and beyond – had harsh words for Mbappé’s media appearance. Moreover, the winner of 2025 would not be able to appreciate Mbappé’s statements and has read the article several times.
A third Frenchman is said to have calmed the dispute between Mbappé and Dembélé
Upcoming national confrontation could ease tension
According to L'Équipe, Mbappé was surprised by Dembélé’s response and says he will not publicly share his opinion again. The French captain of the national team has not yet decided to respond publicly to the controversy.
The two forwards will meet again soon with the French national team, where the tension may subside. L'Équipe writes that the ‘media row’ could then be resolved, provided both players let their viewpoints settle in the dressing room.
Social media also reacted to the exchange; a tweet from Actu Foot reported that Mbappé was surprised by Dembélé’s intervention. The post emphasized that Dembélé had sometimes been reluctant in the past to answer Mbappé’s statements.
Mbappé pitches individual brilliance as key to Ballon d'Or hopes
The situation highlights the delicate dynamics within the French squad, where personal ambitions and individual recognition around the Ballon d’Or add an extra layer of tension.