Kylian Mbappé opened France’s World Cup campaign with a brace and followed it up by taking center stage at Les Bleus’ second press conference. Confident, energized, and fully embracing his role as the team’s leader, Mbappé spoke ahead of France’s matchup against Iraq — a game that could mark his 100th international appearance, a milestone most players can only dream of.

On the state of the team and the “culture of the moment”

Mbappé reflected on how winning teams shape global soccer trends: “There’s a culture of the moment. Winning teams always inspire modern football. When I started, everyone wanted us to play like Barça with possession, then like Real Madrid, and now it’s PSG’s counter‑pressing. Winners always set the tone.”

He added that this French squad is more attack‑minded than in 2018 or 2022, thanks to continuity and the arrival of young talent. But he warned that the World Cup remains unpredictable.

“It’s not about where I play”

When asked whether striker is his favorite role, Mbappé brushed it off: “I feel good right now, but I don’t think it’s because of my position. It’s all about rhythm and dynamics. I’m comfortable in all three attacking spots.”

Michael Olise’s breakout

Mbappé praised the young winger: “Michael is exceptional. His profile appeals to everyone. We’ve built a connection with all our attacking players. We have so much talent that any game can belong to someone different.”

Ousmane Dembélé’s impact

Mbappé defended his longtime teammate:

“I watched the match twice. In the first half, Ousmane was the best of the four attackers. In the second, Michael and I were decisive, but he was important too. He’s calm, he’s the Ballon d’Or, and he has the trust of the group.”

He reminded reporters that Dembélé is still regaining full strength after a late‑season injury.

On his 100th cap and chasing World Cup scoring records

Mbappé didn’t hide what the milestone means: “There’s nothing bigger than the national team. It’s a historic number, especially at a World Cup, but the result is what matters.”

On Lionel Messi’s scoring record, he joked: “I knew Leo would score — he always scores. I’m behind him. I won’t be here at 40; they’ll have kicked me out by then.”

Messi, Cristiano, and Haaland

Mbappé kept it simple: “Messi and Cristiano are the best, that’s clear. My job is to help my team win another World Cup. I’m not thinking about Haaland — maybe they’re thinking about us, but I’m focused on Iraq.”

His on‑field chemistry with Dembélé

Mbappé acknowledged there’s room to refine their connection: “Maybe we need to polish our direct link a bit more. In the first half we made too many technical mistakes and couldn’t break their block. The intensity was there, but some guys were playing their first World Cup match — there were nerves.”

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