Chinese controversy and Kane's overtaking put Mbappé under pressure

Kylian Mbappé is going through difficult moments, the controversy coming from China about memes comparing him to Mao Zedong and Harry Kane overtaking him in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or put him under fire.

Chinese internet users shared memes that associate the captain of Les Bleus with Mao Zedong, sparking a strong reaction in France. This comparison was deemed offensive by several observers.

A defeat was commented on with bitterness by Bertrand Latour, which displeased Pierre Ménès who defended the Bondy native. Ménès denounced Latour’s tone as unfair to the player.

Statements on Canal+

On Canal+, Bertrand Latour had congratulated himself on the failure of Kylian Mbappé’s campaign. “I’m glad he didn’t give in to the whims of a global football star, the France Football jury who were forced to vote for him.”

Philippe Diallo backs Mbappé and French team in China controversy

Reactions on social media

Pierre Ménès replied this Wednesday on his YouTube channel. “I think that when you have to shout to make your opinion heard, something is wrong. What shocks me a lot is that he’s still the guy who is detached from the French team and will certainly go to ask a question to (Kylian) Mbappé next time.” “If I were Mbappé, I would give him his little package at the next press conference of Les Bleus. And I say again that there is only in France that we see a journalist from a major channel allow themselves such a remark about the captain of his national team. […] I can’t help finding this lamentable and shameful, but it doesn’t surprise me coming from him.”

Bertrand Latour replied on X immediately, writing: “Drop it, Pierrot the football.” This tirade generated an incalculable number of negative comments.

Pierre Ménès defends Mbappé against Bertrand Latour's attacks

It remains to be seen whether Kylian Mbappé will respond, possibly at the next gathering of Les Bleus. Supporters are awaiting clarification from the player.