Creator of Mbappé-Mao meme calls international controversy completely crazy and unexpected

In his small Parisian studio, Younes Khelifi watches, stunned, the stream of notifications that follow after Kylian Mbappé called Mao Zedong a “Chinese dictator” in a clip from the podcast The Bridge, triggering a wave of reactions in China on social media.

“It’s completely crazy,” he said in reaction to the controversy. He expressed his surprise at the magnitude of the consequences following Kylian Mbappé’s remarks about Mao Zedong. Kylian Mbappé called Mao Zedong a “Chinese dictator” in a clip from the podcast The Bridge by Aurélien Tchouaméni. This comment provoked Beijing’s anger.

Commercial consequences China

In recent days, the footballer’s Chinese partners have decided to drop him. China has suspended the broadcast of Liga matches. The brand of which he is an ambassador has seen its stock price fall.

Origin of the meme and aftermath

The meme’s creator, Younes Khelifi, had posted the caricature video in the summer of 2023 on his frenchaicovers account. At the time, PSG was in conflict with its star. After his transfer to Real Madrid, internet users regularly call him “Mobutu”.

Kylian Mbappé and the dispute with China that threatens Madrid's revenue

Khelifi admitted he did not expect such a controversy. He said he saw the video on Monday evening and was pleased that Mbappé considers it his favorite meme. He did not imagine it would cross borders and create a diplomatic incident.

He expressed sympathy for Mbappé, highlighting that the player is suffering the loss of sponsors and a potential audience. He added that Mbappé is taking on too much given the seriousness of the subject. He hopes the Madridian can soon put this episode behind him.

Chinese controversy and Kane's overtaking put Mbappé under pressure

The topic was first featured in the Sports Football section. La Libre highlighted the controversy, listed under the Discover category. On the same subject, the meme’s creator expressed his amazement.