Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o questions criticism of France star Kylian Mbappe

Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o has questioned the level of criticism directed at France captain Kylian Mbappe, suggesting the striker has not received the recognition his performances and achievements warrant.

Mbappe has been one of the standout players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring eight goals to share the tournament’s scoring lead with Argentina captain Lionel Messi while guiding France into the semi-finals, where they will face Spain.

Despite those performances, Eto’o believes the 27-year-old continues to face excessive scrutiny in his home country.

Eto’o praises Mbappe’s consistency

Speaking to Le Parisien, the former Cameroon international said Mbappe should be judged on the same basis as other football greats.

“He simply deserves to be judged with the same fairness as other great champions. Perhaps it is time for France to fully realize how fortunate it is to have a player of this stature in its history.”

The president of the Cameroon Football Federation also highlighted Mbappe’s sustained excellence, saying the forward continues to be questioned despite an impressive list of achievements.

“Despite his performance, his record numbers, his list of achievements, and his consistent level, he seems to constantly have to prove himself again.”

Eto’o also challenged critics to consider what more the France captain must accomplish.

“What more does Kylian Mbappe have to achieve to be recognised as the best French player of his generation, or even as one of the greatest French players in history?”

Cameroon legend raises broader question

Eto’o went on to raise the possibility that perceptions of Mbappe may be influenced by factors beyond his footballing ability, stressing that the issue deserved thoughtful discussion.

“It is legitimate to ask a question, even if it is uncomfortable: Does Kylian’s mixed heritage, his origins, and what he represents in French society, consciously or unconsciously influence how some people evaluate his career, his personality, and his positions? This question deserves to be asked responsibly, not to make unfounded accusations, but because racism, prejudice, and bigotry still exist in our societies and should never be tolerated.”

His comments come as Mbappe continues to play a pivotal role in France’s pursuit of World Cup glory, with the striker once again underlining his status as one of the world’s leading footballers on the biggest stage.