Wenger Defends Mbappe Ahead of the World Cup
Just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, Arsène Wenger has come to the defense of Kylian Mbappé following the criticism he received at Real Madrid.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, Kylian Mbappé is once again at the center of the football spotlight. The France captain heads into the tournament following a season filled with expectations and scrutiny at Real Madrid, where, despite producing impressive attacking numbers, he was often blamed by critics for some of the club’s struggles.
In response to that narrative, legendary coach Arsène Wenger publicly backed the French superstar. The former Arsenal manager believes the criticism directed at Mbappé has been excessive and insists the forward has everything required to become one of the standout performers of the tournament.
Wenger Believes Mbappe Has Been Treated Unfairly
According to Wenger, Mbappé ended up carrying far too much responsibility for the difficulties experienced by Real Madrid during the campaign. While the striker continued to deliver goals at an elite level, the team’s collective performances led many observers to focus their criticism on the club’s biggest star.
The French tactician argued that today’s Real Madrid squad does not possess the same level of overall dominance it once enjoyed, which has increased the pressure on its leading players. In that environment, Mbappé became the easiest target whenever results failed to meet expectations.
Wenger also highlighted the forward’s mentality and competitive character, reminding fans that he has repeatedly proven his ability to thrive under pressure, particularly during the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
France Dreaming of a Third Star
Regardless of the debate surrounding his club form, Mbappé remains fully focused on the World Cup. France, managed by Didier Deschamps, enters the tournament as one of the favorites thanks to a squad loaded with talent, depth, and international experience.
Players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, William Saliba, Michael Olise, and Mbappé himself form the backbone of a team capable of challenging any opponent in the competition.
Another reason for optimism within the French camp is the physical condition of their captain. Wenger believes Mbappé will arrive at the tournament fresher than many other stars, which could prove decisive during a demanding month-long competition.
With group-stage matches against Senegal, Iraq, and Norway awaiting them, France will be aiming to begin its World Cup campaign in convincing fashion. And if Arsène Wenger’s prediction proves accurate, Kylian Mbappé could once again become one of the defining figures of the tournament and the leader of a generation determined to return France to the summit of world football.
