Dugarry blames the League and Mbappé's entourage for the China debacle
While Kylian Mbappé, captain of France and Real Madrid star, is provoking outrage in China with a video mocking Mao Zedong, former world champion Christophe Dugarry points to shared responsibilities, criticizing both the Spanish League and the player's entourage.
Kylian Mbappé posted a clip in which he jokes about Mao Zedong, which sparked a massive outcry on Chinese social media. Local sponsors withdrew and many voices denounced the joke as an insult to millions of victims of the regime. The player quickly issued an apology, but the controversy turned into a diplomatic crisis.
Dugarry's Statements on RMC
On Tuesday, Christophe Dugarry expressed his regret on RMC, in the show “Rothen s’enflamme” hosted by Jean‑Guy Lebreton. He said: “It makes a lot of communication errors for a guy who was said to be a communication specialist,” before adding “But he is not the only one responsible.” Dugarry highlighted that “Some people have not taken responsibility” in this fiasco.
According to Dugarry, the Spanish League, led by Javier Tebas, abandoned Mbappé by not clarifying the agreements with China. He recalled that the Liga must inform clubs about what is “feasible or not feasible” before players speak publicly.
Responsibility of the Spanish League
“There is his entourage and there is also the Spanish League,” the consultant insisted. He explained that the Liga must “send and explain to clubs the partnership with China” in order to avoid such blunders. Dugarry also mentioned other contracts with Italy, Bangladesh or other countries, emphasizing the need for clear communication.
Mbappé remains without Ballon d’Or despite his top‑scorer titles in Liga
He criticized Mbappé’s entourage, stating that the lack of proofreading shows an organizational problem. “In the organization he must have around him, there are people who have not taken responsibility,” he added.
A Difficult Day for Mbappé
Mbappé was also narrowly beaten by Harry Kane in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which added to his slump. But the Chinese controversy made his Tuesday a particularly trying day, according to Dugarry. The player was described as a “punching‑ball” by the former French striker.
The footballer lost several Chinese partners, and he is accused of apologising “in the name of money and cash.” Dugarry recalled that Mbappé had once said he would never associate with brands deemed harmful to young people, before learning that he was linked to three major Chinese companies.
Chinese brands break up with Kylian Mbappé after the Ballon d'Or
In conclusion, Dugarry stated that “Everyone holds a grudge against him, from all sides” and that the French captain “had a horrible day.” Even after his apology, he continues to face criticism, illustrating the complexity of a global star confronting geopolitical issues.