Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has urged parents with dreams of raising future sports superstars to avoid overworking their children, warning that excessive pressure can be counterproductive.
The 25-year-old, often hailed as one of football’s brightest stars, shared his thoughts during an interview with Cliquetv, where he reflected on his own upbringing and development as an athlete.
Mbappe’s meteoric rise to stardom is the stuff of legend.
He made his professional debut at 16, earned a record-breaking €180 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain at 18, and became a World Cup winner a year later, claiming the tournament’s Young Player Award in the process.
His journey to the top was shaped by the balanced guidance of his father, Wilfried Mbappe, a football coach, and his mother, Fayza Lamari, an educator, who supported his growth without imposing undue stress.
This balanced approach, Mbappe suggested, is what allowed him to thrive.
He voiced concerns about the trend known as “Project Mbappe,” a term used by ambitious parents who push their children relentlessly, hoping to replicate his success.
Stop it! Cut everything… my parents let me have fun,” Mbappe said when asked about the phenomenon.
Just because you make him do 18 laps of the field at 8 years old doesn’t mean it’s going to change everything.
The French international emphasized the importance of letting children enjoy the process rather than forcing them into rigid training regimes from a young age.
Mbappe credited his parents for allowing him to develop naturally, fostering his love for the game without sacrificing his childhood.
The “Project Mbappe” trend has gained traction in recent years, with some parents adopting intense training schedules and strict developmental paths for their children in the hopes of producing the next global football sensation.
However, Mbappe’s comments serve as a reminder that talent and success often flourish best in environments where children can grow without undue pressure.
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Mbappe’s advice comes not only as a critique of the “Project Mbappe” mentality but also as a call for parents to prioritize their children’s well-being and happiness.
By allowing young athletes to enjoy their formative years, parents can foster a healthier, more sustainable relationship with sport—one that nurtures passion over performance.
As one of the sport’s biggest icons, Mbappe’s words carry weight, offering valuable perspective for parents navigating the challenges of supporting their children’s dreams.
