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Mbappé Faces Scrutiny Ahead of World Cup Opener
Diana Forsythe | June 11, 2026 3:08 PM CST

Kylian Mbappé has come under increased attention in the final days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after reports emerged that he briefly left the France national team camp to travel to Madrid.​
The France captain's reported trip, which was said to have been authorized for personal reasons, sparked discussion among supporters and commentators due to its timing so close to the tournament. Images circulating online of Mbappé in Madrid alongside actress Ester Expósito further intensified debate, with some observers questioning the decision ahead of France's World Cup campaign.​
The discussion follows another incident that attracted widespread attention in the lead-up to the tournament. Prior to France's friendly match against Ivory Coast, a video circulated on social media that appeared to show Mbappé and N'Golo Kanté passing one another without exchanging greetings.​
The footage quickly generated speculation about the atmosphere within the French squad, although no official concerns regarding team unity were confirmed.​
Attention on Mbappé has also extended to his recent performances on the pitch. The forward faced criticism following France's defeat to Ivory Coast and their friendly match against Northern Ireland, where he was unable to make a decisive impact.​
Despite the scrutiny surrounding both his off-field activities and recent form, Mbappé remains a central figure for France as they prepare to begin their World Cup campaign.​
France enter the tournament as one of the leading contenders for the title and will compete in Group I alongside Senegal, Iraq and Norway. As captain and one of the team's most influential players, Mbappé is expected to remain a major focus throughout the competition.​
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup about to get underway, developments involving the Real Madrid forward continue to attract significant public attention as France pursue another world title.


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