Kylian Mbappe answers critics with pointed Instagram video

Kylian Mbappe remains unavailable to France for the rest of the international window, but the captain has kept himself at the centre of attention. The Real Madrid forward responded to the criticism surrounding him with a playful but pointed post on Instagram.

Mbappe shared a video of himself smiling during a cycling session in the countryside. He added Michel Fugain and Big Bazar’s song “Les gentils, les Méchants”, highlighting the lyric asking who is very nasty before answering: “The nasty one.” The choice appeared to be an ironic message aimed at those questioning him.

The 2018 World Cup’s leading scorer has faced scrutiny over alleged tension with Ousmane Dembélé in the Ballon d’Or debate, discussions about his position and a night out in Paris. His injury came during France’s 1-0 victory over Turkey, the first win of Zinedine Zidane’s tenure, and ruled him out of the full international break.

France are preparing to finish their Nations League gathering against Belgium on Monday at 8:45 p.m. at the Stade de France. Mbappe was also absent for the recent meetings with Belgium, which France won 1-0, and Italy, which ended 1-1, leaving his response to unfold away from the pitch as the team closes its campaign.