Kylian Mbappe says Ballon d’Or rivalry has not affected relationship with Ousmane Dembele

Kylian Mbappe has rejected suggestions of a rift with France team-mate Ousmane Dembele, saying their competition for the Ballon d’Or has not created any personal tension.

The Real Madrid forward spoke out after several days of debate surrounding comments he made about the differences between his career and Dembele’s. According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Mbappe said the controversy had not affected his relationship with the Paris Saint-Germain forward and insisted their rivalry remained purely sporting.

Mbappe had previously highlighted the contrasting paths they had taken. He said he had long been viewed as the player who had been chosen for prominence, while Dembele had endured a career affected by numerous injuries.

Dembele responded after Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Brest, saying he had never been the chosen player and had worked hard throughout his career to reach his current position.

With speculation growing about possible tension between the two friends ahead of their reunion at France’s training camp in Clairefontaine, Mbappe addressed the issue directly.

“I have already spoken to him about it, and there is no tension. I do not think there is any real problem. I am completely calm,” Mbappe told L’Equipe during an interview in his role as an ambassador for the On brand.

The Real Madrid striker also suggested the controversy had become bigger because of its timing, with the France squad preparing for matches in the UEFA Nations League.

“During the UEFA Nations League, when the France team are involved, there is always something that becomes the subject of debate, and I think this debate is justified,” he added.

Mbappe’s comments are intended to make clear that the contest for the Ballon d’Or has not damaged his relationship with Dembele. He considers the disagreement to have remained within the boundaries of sporting competition and comments that were interpreted more widely than intended.

The pair’s next meeting in the France camp at Clairefontaine will provide the first practical indication of their relationship since the controversy surrounding the award intensified. Both players are expected to report for international duty after the debate over their respective careers and Ballon d’Or prospects.