Ousmane Dembele responds to Kylian Mbappe: ‘I was never the chosen player’

Ousmane Dembele has responded to comments made by his fellow France international Kylian Mbappe, insisting that hard work rather than being viewed as “the chosen player” has shaped his career.

Mbappe, speaking in an interview with France Football, said Dembele was talented while he himself was regarded as “the chosen player”.

Dembele gave a brief response to Ligue 1+ after Paris Saint-Germain’s match against Brest.

“I have always been at the back of the line and worked hard,” he said. “Throughout my career, I have never said a word. I have simply worked hard.”

“I was never the chosen player. I worked hard, and last year I was rewarded with a wonderful season with Paris Saint-Germain.”

He added: “We will see how things go this year. I am just enjoying playing without pressure.”

Dembele was awarded the 2025 Ballon d’Or for the world’s best player by France Football.

The France forward helped Paris Saint-Germain win four trophies, securing the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, the French Super Cup and the UEFA Champions League.

Dembele repeated that achievement with Paris Saint-Germain in 2026 by winning the Ligue 1 title and the UEFA Champions League. He is aiming to win the award again.

The contest for the world’s best player prize is expected to be closely fought after France Football revealed a shortlist of 30 players.

The nominees include Mbappe, Dembele, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Kvaratskhelia, Achraf Hakimi, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise and Fabian Ruiz.