Kylian Mbappé thanks French fans in open letter after Spain semi-final loss | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé has addressed the French public in an open letter more than a week after the World Cup, balancing disappointment with gratitude. As France captain, he reflected on the team’s journey and the place of football itself.

According to L'Équipe, the message was published on Monday across several newspapers via paid advertising, including L'Équipe. It followed France’s 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain, after which he thanked supporters for standing by the team through difficult moments.

The 27-year-old called the campaign an incredible story, yet admitted the absence of a collective trophy hurts and will continue to hurt. Mbappé, the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, said he took pride in the top-scorer title, though it would have been better with the cup.

He stressed the squad were proud and had given everything. He thanked team-mates, supporters and backroom staff, singling out those who are rarely seen.

There was also a line for Didier Deschamps, who left his post after the tournament, with Mbappé noting he had already shared his thoughts with him. The Real Madrid forward ended by playing down football’s importance, describing it as a serious pursuit but ultimately a game with simple rules.

Source: L'Équipe