Kylian Mbappé continues to be at the center of heated discussions in his home country. Previously playing at an all-time great level before signing for Real Madrid, Mbappé’s current dip in form has drawn concern. He is struggling greatly mentally, which has affected his performances on the pitch.
Michel Platini, a European champion with France in 1984 and widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, weighed in on Mbappé’s struggles during an event honoring rugby legend Serge Blanco as a “Legend of Sport” at the National Sports Museum in Nice.
“I find him lost on the pitch,” said Platini. “A great champion must rise from the ashes, systematically. This is what will make Kylian a great champion.”
Platini’s concern extends beyond club football. Mbappé’s dip in form could impact the French national team, where he is currently on a mini-break from — though presumably will rejoin the National Team in 2025 once he regains his form. With France, the stakes are high. However, Platini tempered his worries by framing the situation as a temporary hurdle.
“It will only be a small setback, for him and for French football,” Platini stated.