Ousmane Dembele defends Real Madrid megastar amid growing criticism: ‘They’ve been very unfair to him’ | OneFootball

Ousmane Dembele has come to the defence of Kylian Mbappe, insisting that the criticism aimed at the Real Madrid forward has gone far beyond what is fair.

The former Barcelona winger, now one of Paris Saint-Germain’s leading figures, spoke extensively during an interview with MARCA, touching on several major topics surrounding the recent season. 

Among them was the constant scrutiny faced by his France teammate, who continues to dominate headlines both on and off the pitch.

Dembele did not hold back when discussing the treatment of Mbappe, making it clear that he believes the spotlight surrounding the Real Madrid star has become excessive.

Dembele frustrated by constant scrutiny of Mbappe

Few players in world football attract as much attention as Mbappe.

Every performance, every comment and even the smallest details of his behaviour often become subjects of debate. 

Dembele has publicly defended Mbappe. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

While that level of attention is often the consequence of being one of the biggest stars in the sport, Dembele believes the criticism has crossed a line.

Speaking about his international teammate, the PSG forward said,

“They’ve been very unfair to him. They go a bit overboard with their criticism of Kylian because he’s an incredible player. 

“A wonderful person off the pitch. I’ve known him for a long time.”

For the former Barcelona attacker, the issue is not criticism itself but the intensity with which Mbappe is often judged compared to other players.

Praising Mbappe’s character

Dembele does not understand the criticism towards Mbappe. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

Dembele went on to explain that many people overlook the personal qualities that have made Mbappe such an important figure within the French setup.

Continuing his defence of the Real Madrid star, he said,

“They go overboard with their criticism just because it’s Kylian Mbappé. They shouldn’t be so hard on him. 

“Whether he ties his laces or not, whether he pulls up his socks or not… It’s too much. Because he’s still a human being and he’s a player of exceptional quality.”

He also underlined Mbappe’s importance within the France squad, adding,

“In any case, here in the French national team, he gets on very well with us. He’s a leader, the captain of our team, and he’s a very important player,” he concluded.