According to Mundo Deportivo, Mbappe has recently sparked controversy in France due to his estrangement from Kante and leaving training camp early.
In recent days, a video has circulated online showing a clear estrangement between Mbappe and Kante. This scene occurred in the player tunnel last week, just before the French team was about to play a friendly match against Ivory Coast. While other teammates were greeting each other normally, Mbappe and Kante clearly avoided each other, making no eye contact and shaking no hands. This chilly scene sparked strong controversy and led to various speculations about the team's internal atmosphere.
Claims circulating on social media suggest that the source of their fractured relationship can be traced back to a friendly match against Colombia on March 29, 2026. In that match, Kante was appointed captain for his birthday. However, when Mbappe came on as a substitute around the 80th minute, he had Cherki take the captain's armband from Kante and give it to him. This action drew widespread criticism, with many deeming it disrespectful, especially given it was Kante's birthday, and Mbappe had not directly asked Kante for it. However, some defended the action, arguing that Mbappe is the official captain of the French team and has the right to wear the armband whenever he is on the field.
Additionally, a revelation from L'Equipe further fueled the controversy. The report stated that there was a conversation in the French team's locker room where Dembélé asked Mbappe to put more effort into defense. The current Ballon d'Or winner demanded Mbappe to be more involved in pressing and winning back possession, reigniting long-standing discussions about Mbappe's attitude and tactical involvement in games.
Finally, Mbappe's departure from the French team's training camp just hours after the friendly match against Northern Ireland also displeased French fans, even though the departure was approved for personal reasons. Subsequently, images of him reuniting with actress Ester Expósito in Madrid further intensified the dissatisfaction. Many fans therefore believe that Mbappe went to be with his girlfriend, prioritizing his personal life over his national team duties.