RMC: Mbappé's ultimate challenge is winning over the French people

RMC Sport reports that Mbappé's greatest challenge is winning the hearts of the French people.

Following a standout performance against Senegal, in which France won 3-1, Mbappé gave an interview in which he confirmed his stated priority: himself.

When M6 journalist Virginie Saint-Cléry asked whether he felt pressure from critics, Mbappé replied: "If I tried to silence every critic, I'd be playing until I'm 80. I play to write my country's history. Everything else will always be part of who I am."

That statement crystallizes his approach. Mbappé's public communication aims to establish his superiority and enhance his perceived value, rather than unite people. He wants to prove he deserves a different status—he is not merely a footballer. Few athletes ever declare they want to "write their country's history." Such statements are virtually unheard of.

Mbappé employs a calculated sense of superiority. His communication strategy is clear and directed: to leave a lasting legacy. Only politicians and national leaders typically communicate with such explicit purpose.

He pursues this through two pillars: on-field performance and public engagement on social issues. From the Nahel incident to the rise of the National Rally and legislative elections, Mbappé speaks out. His achievements form the first cornerstone of his historical narrative; his civic engagement forms the second. He already has the potential to become a political figure.

Mbappé also possesses rhetorical skills rarely seen among active athletes. At 22, he appeared on the cover of L'Obs in 2021. That interview contained roughly 15 questions, fewer than a third about football—the rest explored his views on society. He spoke like a researcher from France's National Centre for Scientific Research, discussing "new France" even then. He has crafted memorable phrases that border on maxims: "Don't talk to me about age" and "You're not satisfied? Hat-trick."

Yet Mbappé faces one significant obstacle: he has not won over the French people—not yet. For years, the Real Madrid player has approached his profession with a calm, even detached demeanor. After the Senegal match, he reiterated: "We must stay calm." He rarely displays emotion. Few smiles, few shared moments with fans. The real "robot" is not Haaland—it is him. This emotional distance, combined with his socially engaged statements, can come across as preachy. While Mbappé commands a vast social media following, he lacks deep roots in the French public's heart. When attacked or subjected to online harassment, public support for him has never matched the level one might expect.

His team appears to be recognizing this gap. The special Le Parisien interview featuring questions from friends and family was one such attempt. But Mbappé is a singular figure—he has a distinctive communication style, an analytical mind, and a confidence bordering on arrogance. Emotionally connecting with people is not his strength.

Simply winning the World Cup will not bridge this divide.