France captain Kylian Mbappe has pledged to increase his defensive contribution as the two-time world champions prepare to open their World Cup campaign against Senegal on Tuesday.
The 27-year-old Real Madrid forward has faced growing scrutiny over his performances and leadership for both club and country. France team-mate Ousmane Dembele recently defended him, saying the criticism of Mbappe had gone “too far”.
Speaking to French newspaper Le Parisien, Mbappe answered questions from team-mates and friends. When his younger brother Ethan, who plays for Lille, teased him about his defensive work, the France captain admitted he must improve.
“I need to take the extra step because it’s something important for the team and I have to do it,” Mbappe said.
“It will start this time because we want to win, and to win, I’m ready to do whatever because I want to win at all costs.”
Mbappe joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 but endured a difficult second season at the Bernabeu. Despite finishing as La Liga’s top scorer, he faced fan frustration and rumours of dressing-room unrest as Real Madrid ended the campaign without a trophy.
Opta data also highlighted his limited defensive impact. Among 1,490 players in Europe’s top five leagues with at least 19 league appearances, Mbappe ranked 1,350th for combined interceptions, blocks, tackles and possessions won.
He also averaged just 0.14 tackles per 90 minutes, the fifth-lowest figure in that group.
However, Mbappe’s World Cup record remains outstanding. He has scored 12 goals in 14 tournament appearances, including a hat-trick in the 2022 final against Argentina.
One more goal would take him level with Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer. This will be Mbappe’s first World Cup as France captain after succeeding Hugo Lloris in 2023.
After facing Senegal, France will continue their Group campaign against Iraq and Norway.
