Orlando Gill says Mbappé World Cup episode is behind him

Orlando Gill does not expect his controversial World Cup meeting with Kylian Mbappé to define his arrival at Lille. The Paraguayan goalkeeper believes whistles and pressure will be part of playing in Ligue 1, but says he has learned to handle hostile reactions. Lille have signed him from San Lorenzo on a five-year contract.

Gill encountered the French public during Paraguay’s stormy World Cup round-of-16 tie against France. Paraguay repeatedly disrupted the game, and after the final whistle Gill tried to shake Kylian Mbappé’s hand as the France forward celebrated in front of his supporters. Gill later apologised for his conduct, saying the incident came from his competitive nature and should now be considered settled.

His new dressing room includes Ethan Mbappé, Kylian’s younger brother. Gill said he has spoken with Ethan and described the Lille winger as both a good player and a serious professional. Ethan, 19, plays on the right wing and joined Lille from Paris Saint-Germain’s under-19 side in the 2024-25 season. He holds French and Cameroonian nationality and has a listed market value of €8 million. The pair’s relationship gives Gill an immediate connection to the family at the centre of the earlier episode, even as he prepares for scrutiny from Ligue 1 supporters.