Didier Deschamps Addresses Rape Allegations Against Kylian Mbappe, Denounces Media Speculation

France’s national team coach, Didier Deschamps, responded on Monday to a Swedish report claiming that captain Kylian Mbappe was under investigation for rape, calling the news “not a good thing for the national team.” Deschamps expressed his concern about the negative impact of such stories on the team’s atmosphere, following France’s 2-1 victory against Belgium in the UEFA Nations League.

“Everyone is free to write what they want, but there is a negative atmosphere” surrounding the French squad, Deschamps stated to reporters. His comments came as questions were raised about Mbappe’s recent absence from the team. The star player, who also captains the French national side, was excused from this month’s matches to focus on his fitness, a decision that had already sparked controversy before Thursday’s match against Israel.

The controversy escalated when Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reported that an allegation of rape had been made to the police in Stockholm, without naming a suspect. However, another Swedish publication, Expressen, later claimed that the individual in question was the 25-year-old Mbappe, who currently plays for Real Madrid.

In response, Mbappe has strongly denied the accusations, labeling the report as “fake news.” His statement challenges the media’s portrayal of events and aims to quell rumors surrounding his name.

Deschamps, in his address, urged caution and responsibility from the media when reporting such sensitive matters. “Be careful when you pick things up,” he warned, highlighting the potential harm misinformation can cause, not only to the individual involved but also to the team as a whole.

As the French team navigates the fallout, Deschamps’ defense of his captain underlines his commitment to maintaining unity and focus amid external distractions. The incident adds pressure to an already intense atmosphere surrounding the national team, as they strive to maintain their competitive form in international tournaments.

With Mbappe’s swift dismissal of the allegations and Deschamps’ appeal for caution, it remains to be seen how the story will evolve and whether the French national team can maintain its focus amid the ongoing media storm.