Dallas: Kylian Mbappe finds himself at the centre of a growing football debate as France prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Spain. While the French captain has been unstoppable for Les Bleus in the tournament, his performances at Real Madrid have continued to attract scrutiny despite impressive individual numbers.
Mbappe has emerged as one of the standout players at the World Cup, leading France’s attack with confidence and consistency. However, his second season at Real Madrid ended without a major trophy, creating a contrast between his international success and club struggles.
Mbappe’s World Cup brilliance continues
Mbappe has been one of France’s biggest weapons throughout the tournament, scoring eight goals and sharing the top spot in the Golden Boot race with Argentina legend Lionel Messi.
The 27-year-old forward has looked close to his best form, reminding fans of his explosive performances during France’s victorious 2018 World Cup campaign in Russia. His pace, finishing ability and ability to perform in high-pressure matches have once again made him one of the most feared attackers in world football.
France coach Didier Deschamps and the rest of the squad are hoping Mbappe can help deliver another World Cup title. After losing the 2022 final against Argentina in Qatar, Les Bleus are determined to secure a third star on their jersey.
Mbappe’s form has also helped Real Madrid players create history at the tournament. The Spanish club’s players have scored 19 goals at the World Cup, setting a new record for goals by players representing a single club in the competition.
The previous record of 18 goals was jointly held by Hungary’s Honved in 1954, Bayern Munich in 2014 and Paris Saint-Germain in 2022.
Interestingly, none of Real Madrid’s World Cup goalscorers are part of Spain’s squad, despite the club being one of the biggest football institutions in the country.
Real Madrid success missing despite Mbappe numbers
The biggest contradiction surrounding Mbappe is that his personal performances at Real Madrid have been excellent, but team achievements have not followed.
Since joining Madrid in 2024, Mbappe has scored regularly but the club has failed to win a major trophy in two seasons. Their Champions League campaign ended early after elimination by Bayern Munich, while Barcelona won the La Liga title after Madrid fell short in the domestic race.
Mbappe finished the season with extraordinary statistics, scoring 42 goals in 44 matches across competitions. His 25 league goals earned him the Pichichi Trophy as La Liga’s top scorer for the second consecutive season.
However, Real Madrid’s culture is built around winning trophies, and individual achievements have not completely protected players from criticism.
Mbappe’s situation has highlighted the difference between club football and international football. For France, he is the undisputed leader and the face of a team built around his strengths. At Madrid, he has had to adjust to expectations, tactical changes and pressure that comes with representing one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Criticism and controversies at Madrid
Mbappe faced criticism towards the end of the season after disagreements and reports of tension at Real Madrid.
One major moment came in May when he was left out of the starting XI against Real Oviedo after returning from a hamstring injury. Mbappe later spoke about the decision and said he respected the coach’s choice, although his comments created headlines.
Former Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa later denied that Mbappe had been considered the fourth-choice forward and said there had been a misunderstanding.
Earlier in March, reports also suggested disagreements between Mbappe’s camp and Madrid’s medical staff regarding the management of a knee injury. The player denied any suggestion that the club had mishandled his treatment.
Real Madrid have since made changes to their coaching and medical structures as they look to rebuild after a disappointing period.
Mourinho backs Mbappe to shine
New Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has expressed confidence in Mbappe’s ability and believes the French forward can reach even greater heights.
“The only thing I can say about Kylian Mbappe is that he’s a phenomenal player, and I’m going to try to help him to be even better than this,” Mourinho said in June.
The Portuguese manager’s arrival has raised expectations that Mbappe could become the central figure in Madrid’s next successful era.
For now, though, Mbappe’s immediate focus remains on France’s World Cup campaign. The semi-final against Spain represents another opportunity for him to prove his ability on the biggest stage.
Spain challenge awaits France captain
Spain will provide one of France’s toughest tests of the tournament. The European champions have shown excellent form and defeated France in their previous two meetings, adding extra importance to Tuesday’s semi-final.
Mbappe will once again be France’s biggest attacking threat, and his battle with Spain’s defence could decide the outcome of the contest.
The contrast between his club and country performances will continue to attract attention, but for France, there is little doubt about Mbappe’s importance.
If he can continue his World Cup form and guide Les Bleus to the final, the debate surrounding his Madrid struggles may become much quieter. For Real Madrid supporters, the hope will be that the same player carrying France can eventually deliver the trophies expected at the Santiago Bernabeu.