France Questions Mbappé’s Leadership Weeks Before the World Cup

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, tension is beginning to rise around the French national team—off the pitch as much as on it. At the center of the debate is a name that once seemed untouchable: Kylian Mbappé. Despite his remarkable goal-scoring record and global status, voices in France are now questioning whether he should remain the team’s attacking leader.

The spark behind this discussion has been the outstanding form of Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, two players bringing creativity, flair, and unpredictability that have caught the attention of both fans and analysts. According to comments reported by RMC Sport, former France international Jérôme Rothen has been particularly outspoken, suggesting the team should not be built around Mbappé as its creative focal point.

“What Dembélé and Olise Do, Mbappé Can’t”

Rothen’s remarks have quickly gained traction. The former player didn’t hold back when comparing skill sets within France’s attack:
“When you watch Dembélé and Olise… what they do with the ball is incredible. I’m not ashamed to say Mbappé can’t do that,” he stated.

Beyond the controversy, his argument carries tactical weight. Mbappé remains one of the most lethal forwards in world football, but his profile leans more toward finishing than playmaking. In contrast, both Dembélé and Olise excel at creating chances, beating defenders one-on-one, and unlocking compact defenses.

Rothen proposed that maximize Mbappé as a finisher within a structured system, rather than relying on him as the team’s creative engine.

A Divided Camp and a Tactical Headache for Deschamps

Not everyone in France agrees with this perspective. According to voices like Tony Vairelles, the excitement around Olise and Dembélé should not trigger drastic changes. In his view, integration should be gradual without disrupting established hierarchies.

This leaves head coach Didier Deschamps facing a difficult choice: maintain the traditional structure with Mbappé as the focal point or redesign the system to fully exploit the form of his most creative players.

A Shift in Power or a Strategic Adjustment?

With the World Cup fast approaching, France is facing a shift in its attacking identity. Mbappé remains the team’s biggest star and a decisive figure in crucial moments, but football evolves, and so do team dynamics.

The rise of Olise and Dembélé demands reconsideration. This is not necessarily about sidelining Mbappé, but rather about finding the right balance to maximize his strengths without limiting emerging talent.

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