Mbappe admits World Cup pain will linger

France's captain breaks silence after heartbreaking fourth-place finish.

Kylian Mbappé

player

View profile →

What happened. Kylian Mbappe released a 520-word statement expressing pain after France lost 2-0 to Spain and 6-4 to England, finishing fourth.

• Mbappe captained France in Didier Deschamps' final tournament.
• He will link up with new manager Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid.
• Madrid aim to reclaim LaLiga title not won since 2024.

“We're not bringing a collective trophy home. It hurts, and it will hurt for a while.”

— Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe is on holiday before joining Real Madrid's pre-season under Mourinho.

In this story

Kylian MbappéFrance

More to read

Get French Football

‘This World Cup is over, but the story goes on’ – Kylian Mbappé releases open letter to France fans

The Guardian

Mbappé becomes leader of France’s collective under Deschamps’ regime of trust

Daily Mail Football

Who will win the 2026 Ballon d'Or? Bookies reveal clear favourite as Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi seek prestigious honour - but will one of Spain's World Cup heroes take the prize?

Football Espana

Mbappé and Vinicius Back in Group Training Ahead of Celta Vigo