Dembélé’s broader argument is not that Mbappé should be protected from fair judgment. Rather, the forward appears to believe that the criticism has become constant, regardless of the circumstances.
“Passam um pouco do ponto nas críticas ao Kylian porque ele é um jogador incrível. Uma grande pessoa fora de campo, porque o conheço há muito tempo. Às vezes, vão longe demais nas críticas só porque é o Kylian Mbappé.”
The message is familiar in elite football: the bigger the player, the smaller the margin for an ordinary moment. Mbappé’s performances are analysed intensely, but Dembélé is also defending the person behind the global profile.
The report says Dembélé considers Mbappé’s standing inside the national team to be much stronger than the outside noise suggests. He described the forward as a leader, captain and important presence in the dressing room.
“De qualquer forma, aqui na seleção da França, ele se dá muito bem conosco,” Dembélé said. “Ele é um líder, o capitão do nosso time, e um jogador muito importante.”
That backing matters. France’s expectations are enormous, and Mbappé is central to the team’s ambitions. Yet a captain also needs trust from teammates when public debate becomes relentless.
Dembélé used everyday details to illustrate what he sees as excessive attention, saying critics might even debate whether Mbappé ties his boot or adjusts his sock.
“Não deveriam ser tão duros com ele,” Dembélé said, insisting that Mbappé remains both human and an exceptional footballer.
The next France gathering will offer the clearest answer. Mbappé’s response will ultimately come on the pitch, but Dembélé’s public defence underlines the support he appears to retain inside the squad.