Zinedine Zidane set to mediate between Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele

Samuel Ekow Amoasi Appiah September 14, 2026

Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele are expected to hold a face-to-face meeting to resolve their differences during France’s next international camp, with Zinedine Zidane set to oversee the discussion.

The pair have dominated coverage in the French media after exchanging comments linked to the Ballon d’Or. Mbappe, who plays for Real Madrid, recently compared his career with that of Paris Saint-Germain forward Dembele.

“Dembele has always been seen as a talented player. As for me, I have always been considered the chosen player,” Mbappe said. “I reached the top directly and at a young age. He has had a different career because of injuries, but he has managed to make up for that very well.”

Dembele responded after Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-0 victory over Brest, emphasising the effort behind his progress.

“I have always been like this. I have always sat at the back of the class and worked hard. Throughout my career, I have not said a single word; I have worked,” he said.

“I was never the chosen player. I worked hard and was rewarded with a great year at Paris. This year we will see [the situation in the Ballon d’Or]. I am following it without pressure. We will see.”

According to French radio station RMC, Mbappe and Dembele will meet during France’s next training camp, which is scheduled for the end of this month. Zidane is expected to lead the session aimed at clearing the air between the two players.

French newspaper L’Equipe previously reported that Mbappe was also surprised by Dembele’s comments on Sunday, although he does not intend to respond publicly.

The newspaper said this is not the first time Dembele has been upset by remarks made by Mbappe. Dembele has reportedly been angered by several public comments from his former team-mate on different occasions over recent years.

L’Equipe added that Dembele knows Mbappe better than anyone, but is not naive. Despite his frustration, he has consistently chosen to remain silent in public when Mbappe has made such comments.