‘He deserves to be torn to shreds’ – Jerome Rothen slams French-Cameroonian Kylian Mbappe over World Cup absence

Former PSG midfielder Jerome Rothen has criticised Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe following the France captain’s withdrawal from the squad for their World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan.

Mbappe, whose father is Cameroonian and mother Algerian, was left out by coach Didier Deschamps due to a minor injury.

However, the striker was later spotted in Dubai, fueling speculation in France that he was fully fit and able to play.

Rothen, speaking on RMC Sport, expressed shock at the situation.

“I’m shocked. I stand by that. It’s not even against Mbappé. I’m angry at the captain of any national team, and if it had been the captain of another national team, I would have torn him to shreds too,” he said.

The former PSG star questioned Deschamps’ handling of the matter, suggesting a lack of transparency.

“What I don’t understand is how Deschamps can let this happen. Either he’s in agreement with Mbappé and he does what he wants, but he should explain that to us. Is Deschamps capable of letting this happen? Otherwise, once again, I believe there must be answers,” Rothen added.

Rothen also criticised the striker’s attitude, questioning his commitment as captain.

“A match for the French national team, whether it’s a minor setback or not, is a source of pride. I have a hard time accepting this kind of behavior,” he said.

The former France international highlighted Mbappe’s perceived sense of entitlement, despite playing a demanding schedule at both club and international level.