Kylian Mbappe explains why he obscured Real Madrid’s ‘We are all Ceutans’ message

Kylian Mbappe has explained why he, Vinicius Junior and Ibrahima Konate partially obscured Real Madrid’s message of solidarity with Ceuta before Tuesday’s 3-2 win over Elche.

The three Real Madrid players rolled up their pre-match shirts, partially hiding the words “Todos somos caballas” – translated as “We are all Ceutans” – while their teammates and Elche players displayed the message in full. Mbappe and Vinicius later removed their shirts before the pre-match handshake, while Konate kept his on for longer.

The gesture attracted criticism in Spain, with La Liga president Javier Tebas describing the decision to partially wear the shirts as unacceptable. Tebas said the initiative was humanitarian rather than political and that the players’ decision had caused concern among people in Ceuta.

Mbappe has now clarified that his decision was not intended to oppose the people of Ceuta.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, the France international said he stood in solidarity with the people of the Spanish territory while also wanting to acknowledge migrants who had died or were enduring difficult conditions.

“I want to explain this clearly so people understand. It was the club’s decision to include the jersey, to have us wear it. We players had to wear it. The first thing I want to say is that I stand in full solidarity with Ceuta and with all the victims.

“Because before I’m a player, I’m a human being. But I also wanted to make a gesture and spare a thought for all the immigrants who have lost their lives and who are also living in harsh conditions.”

Thousands crossed from Morocco

Ceuta, a Spanish autonomous city on the North African coast, has been at the centre of a major migration crisis following a large influx of people from neighbouring Morocco.

More than 70,000 people crossed into the territory in July, with reports indicating that most returned shortly afterwards while several thousand remained in Ceuta. The crisis has also been linked to deaths during the crossings and difficult conditions for those who stayed.

Real Madrid had already shown support for Ceuta before their Champions League meeting with Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu on September 8.

Supporters in the club’s south stand displayed placards featuring Ceuta’s coat of arms, while the wider stadium joined in with a round of applause.

Mbappe said his position was difficult because he did not want his actions to be interpreted as opposition to Ceuta or its residents.

“It wasn’t an easy position to take, it was difficult because in the end, people might think I’m against the people of Ceuta, but no, absolutely not.

“I have nothing against them, and I support them 100% in my thoughts. But I also wanted to spare a thought for all the people who are suffering, because at the end of the day, I’m human, and I don’t want to prioritize one form of suffering over another.”

Mbappe calls for peace

The French forward said his intention was to acknowledge suffering on both sides of the crisis rather than choose between them.

“There are people who are suffering, and it breaks my heart to see that happening in the world. I’m a young man who wants the best for the world we live in.

“I aim to send a message of positivity and peace, and I hope this situation is resolved quickly.”

Mbappe then helped Real Madrid claim victory at Elche, scoring as the Spanish giants recovered from surrendering a two-goal advantage to win 3-2.

Real Madrid will return to action on Sunday when they face city rivals Atletico Madrid, with Mbappe expected to start again.