Mbappé: French Love Complaining; Zidane Hair Tribute 'Funny'

Kylian Mbappé has opened up about the weight of representing France, the burden of constant high expectations, and the cultural tendency of his countrymen to complain. In a wide-ranging interview with Vanity Fair conducted during the recent international break, the Real Madrid star also addressed his role as a citizen, the management of his own fame, and the 2026 World Cup.

The forward stated that while there is nothing better than representing one's nation and joining the elite of international football, the public's demand for miracles is a constant pressure. "Miracles only happen on the pitch," he said, adding that there is no need to play the match before its scheduled time.

Political Stance and Citizen Duty

When asked about his position against the far-right in France during the Euros, Mbappé was clear that being a global star does not separate him from his country's issues. "You can be a footballer and a global star, but above all you are a citizen," he explained. He noted that people sometimes believe money and fame insulate him from societal problems, but he understands the consequences such political movements can have for his country.

The 25-year-old described the political situation as alarming for citizens, insisting that they could not stand idly by and hope everything would be fine. "We really tried to fight the idea that a footballer must be silent and only play," he added.

The 'Trap' of Fame

On managing his global celebrity, Mbappé offered a nuanced view. He described it as a chosen life, though perhaps not to the extreme degree he now experiences, and admitted it is difficult because he feels he no longer belongs to himself but to everyone. However, he finds it hard to focus on the negatives when millions express their gratitude and affection. "It seems a bit ungrateful to complain," he remarked.

Acknowledging his own learning curve, Mbappé said he did not always handle fame well, having become famous at a very young age. He lacked the maturity or empathy to understand that some people would only see him once in their lives. He now tries to be more understanding, even when people overstep boundaries.

French Culture and Criticism

Turning to the atmosphere in France, Mbappé described a cultural trait where the French love to complain and be dissatisfied. "I think the French person is happier when they are not happy, because we criticize everything," he stated, including himself in that assessment. He believes new generations are trying to change this mindset.

As prominent representatives of France, he said their goal is to project the best possible image of the country, despite its negative and dark sides. He affirmed that France is a wonderful country that inspires the world with its culture, even if it is true that the French have tried to tear down all their players.

World Cup and Childhood Memories

Regarding the 2026 World Cup being organized in the United States, Mbappé joked that he does not know the cost of organizing it and would likely fail if asked to do so. He trusts that FIFA sees the U.S. as a manageable location for the event.

On his childhood desire to cut his hair like Zinedine Zidane, Mbappé called the memory "funny." He said it shows the innocence of a child who does not understand that a famous and powerful man can also lose his hair.

Concluding the interview, Mbappé reflected that his childhood was normal, with loving and caring parents, even though he did not live much with them. He described this as a different situation, but exactly what he wanted at the time.