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TURIN, ITALY - MAY 9: Michel Platini during the JOFC day in May 9, 2026 in Giardini Naxos, Italy. (Photo by Alberto Gandolfo - Juventus/Juventus FC via Getty Images) | Juventus FC via Getty Images
French football legend Michel Platini has offered a strong defense of Kylian Mbappé, praising the Real Madrid star’s development on the pitch while also weighing in on the criticism he has faced for his political comments in recent years.
In an interview with RTL France, the former UEFA president highlighted Mbappé’s growth as a footballer and argued that the scrutiny surrounding the France captain often extends beyond his performances.
“I think Kylian is doing a very good job and has evolved his game. He’s gone from being a player with less accuracy in front of goal to being a goalscorer, a finisher. Furthermore, he’s been the top scorer in Spain for two years running,” Platini said.
Platini believes that despite Mbappe’s personal achievements, the public often judges him more harshly for matters away from the field.
“We are very demanding of him, but we are harsher on his public opinions than on his sporting performance.”
The comments come amid ongoing discussion surrounding Mbappé’s willingness to speak on political and social issues. During Euro 2024, the French captain urged citizens to participate in the elections and described France as being at a pivotal moment in its history. More recently, in an interview with Vanity Fair, Mbappé reiterated concerns about the possibility of a far-right electoral victory.
Platini believes footballers should have the freedom to express themselves, although he drew a distinction between representing oneself and representing the national team.
“I have no problem with him expressing his political views when he’s not representing the French national team. Outside of that context, whether at Real Madrid or anywhere else, he has complete freedom of expression. However, when he wears the national team armband, his image represents all French people equally.
“In any case, I think it’s great that intelligent people get involved and take a stand on social issues. In the end, it shows that footballers aren’t necessarily stupid; in fact, some are quite intelligent.”
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