Kylian Mbappe Discusses Football’s Dark Side: Reveals Struggles with Fame, Legal Battles, and Personal Doubts

Key Takeaways:

• Last year, Kylian Mbappe opened up about his ongoing legal dispute with PSG over €55 million in unpaid wages and bonuses
• Mbappe reflected on the paranoia and vigilance necessary to maintain relationships amid global stardom in his interview with L’Equipe
• The forward registered 44 goals in 59 matches during his debut season at Real Madrid and has scored 52 goals in 92 appearances for France

Mbappe’s Candid Revelations About Football’s Inner Workings

Kylian Mbappe, now a marquee player for both Real Madrid and the French national team, has spoken frankly about the less glamorous realities of professional football. In a revealing interview with French publication L’Equipe, he described how his enduring passion has prevented him from feeling ‘disgusted’ with the sport, noting that the general public is fortunate to only witness the spectacle rather than the complexities unfolding behind closed doors.

Après 45 ans d'existence, @lemaglequipe se réinvente et sera désormais disponible en kiosques tous les jours. Le premier numéro, dévoilé ce mercredi 10 septembre, met à l'honneur Kylian Mbappé. Au programme notamment, un entretien XXL et les confidences de toute sa famille. pic.twitter.com/kgtR7LnnSI

— L'Équipe (@lequipe) September 9, 2025

Mbappe, who commands a reported annual salary of £12.8 million, acknowledged that while the game’s global status and financial incentives can be enticing, they also pose significant challenges and pressures. Reflecting on his rise from Monaco standout to international superstardom following his pivotal role in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup triumph, the forward suggested that maintaining a deep love for football is crucial for withstanding its darker elements.

Legal Disputes and Off-Pitch Controversies

Beyond the pitch, Mbappe has been embroiled in a protracted legal confrontation with former club Paris Saint-Germain, seeking the recovery of €55 million over unpaid wages and bonuses. PSG have argued the contract was ‘legally amended’, contending that Mbappe breached commitments upon sealing his high-profile free transfer to Real Madrid in 2024. Earlier this year, Mbappe reportedly withdrew a harassment case against the Ligue 1 club related to his treatment after he declined to renew his contract in the summer of 2023.

Mbappe maintains his actions against PSG are solely to retrieve what is contractually due: “what I’m owed”, noting that he had been aware of payment issues while still at the club. He also admits that pursuing legal recourse has led to perceptions of him as an “ex who’s angry”.

His transition to life in Madrid was further complicated last year when his name emerged in connection with a rape investigation in Sweden, linked only by the location of an alleged incident at his hotel. Mbappe immediately and categorically denied any involvement, later clarifying that he was not contacted by authorities and that his name was not officially mentioned during the investigation. The player voiced concern for the affected parties, noting his sadness that the welfare of the potential victim often gets overlooked.

Challenges of Relationships and Celebrity

Examining the effects of global fame on personal connections, Mbappe discussed the fine balance required between paranoia and vigilance when building relationships. He explained that while it is necessary to be cautious, it is equally important not to become overly suspicious or guarded – sentiments he expanded upon during the interview:

“It comes down to the fine line between paranoia and vigilance. Some people want to harm you, but that’s not everyone. You shouldn’t overthink it and just jump in. This applies to everyone. Are you married? How did you decide she was the one? You do everything you can to make it work, but how do you guess the obvious? Life is a gamble. They often say that success comes to the bold, so you have to try. What’s hard in football can be facing the gaze of others.”

On-Field Achievements and Future Expectations

Despite the turbulence off the pitch, Mbappe’s footballing statistics tell a story of remarkable consistency. Since his arrival at Real Madrid, the forward has netted 44 goals in 59 appearances. Meanwhile, as captain of the French national side, he has amassed 52 goals across 92 matches.

With these contributions, Mbappe is set to play a vital role as Real Madrid aim to capture both the LaLiga and Champions League titles this season. Additionally, he will be a central figure in France’s quest for success at the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.