Kylian Mbappe has the perfect opportunity to silence his Spanish critics in France's World Cup semi-final showdown with La Roja

Kylian Mbappé heads into France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain with an opportunity to answer critics in Madrid while also seeking revenge for a Euro 2024 setback at the same stage two years ago. The article notes that after moving to Real Madrid in a blockbuster free transfer in 2024, Mbappé—now 27—has produced 86 goals in 103 appearances but has yet to win a major trophy with Los Blancos. It says his relationship with Spanish media has deteriorated, worsening during the back end of the 2025-26 season as Real fell behind Barcelona in the title race and were eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals by Bayern Munich. The piece also links the scrutiny to perceived off-field issues, citing reporting from The Athletic about an altercation involving backroom staff and an April incident before a match against Real Betis. Mbappé also scored only four times between mid-February and season end due to minor injuries.