Mbappé Taken Aback by Dembélé’s Resolute Response Ahead of Upcoming Ballon d’Or Ceremony

Key Takeaways:

• Kylian Mbappé was reportedly surprised by Ousmane Dembélé’s pointed response to his recent remarks
• Both Dembélé and Mbappé have been nominated for this year’s Ballon d’Or, to be awarded in London next month
• The pair have yet to discuss their public comments, with the international break providing a potential opportunity to resolve tensions

Context: Ballon d’Or Nominations Ignite Tension

Ousmane Dembélé (29) has responded to recent remarks made by France captain Kylian Mbappé (27), without directly naming him, during an interview on Ligue 1 Plus on Sunday night. According to information from L’Équipe, Mbappé has been left notably surprised by Dembélé’s commentary.

Both players feature amongst the nominees for this year’s prestigious Ballon d’Or, scheduled for presentation in London next month. Dembélé currently holds the accolade, while Mbappé – a player many considered destined to claim the award – has yet to secure it at age 27 despite widespread expectation. In an interview with France Football, Mbappé remarked: “He has always been seen as a talented player; I have always been seen as the chosen one.”

🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Ousmane Dembélé’s comments about being “NEVER the chosen one” were apparently PLANNED before the interview, as he wanted to respond to Kylian Mbappé’s words.

According to RMC, Dembélé’s appearance was prepared BEFORE the match.

PSG are said to have told Ligue 1+ that… pic.twitter.com/lBFRGUlk6r

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) September 15, 2026

Dembélé’s Composed but Firm Reply

Dembélé’s camp did not take kindly to Mbappé’s comments, with some associates reportedly issuing strong words in response, as reported by L’Équipe. In his subsequent interview on Ligue 1 Plus, Dembélé addressed the matter:

“I have always been at the back of the class, working hard. In my whole career, I haven’t said a word. I have worked a lot. As I said, I was never the chosen one, but I worked and, last year, I was rewarded for a fantastic year with PSG, and this year, we will see, without pressure, calm,” said the PSG forward.

According to RMC Sport, it was PSG and Dembélé who encouraged the Ligue 1 Plus interview to include a Ballon d’Or-related question, ensuring that Dembélé’s side of the story would be addressed publicly. This exchange marks a departure from past occasions, as Dembélé has now chosen to respond publicly where previously he refrained.

What Comes Next for the French Duo?

Despite making headlines with their remarks, Mbappé and Dembélé have not yet spoken directly regarding these recent exchanges. With the international break approaching, there may be an opportunity to settle the matter away from the glare of the media. Given their history as former Paris Saint-Germain teammates and longstanding friendship, observers will be watching closely for any sign of reconciliation.