Presnel Kimpembe has shared a light-hearted story about former teammate Kylian Mbappe while praising the forward’s ability to cope with criticism during their years together at Paris Saint-Germain.
Kimpembe, who now plays for Qatar SC, spent seven seasons alongside Mbappe in Paris and was part of a squad that also featured global stars including Neymar and Lionel Messi.
Speaking to RMC Sport, the defender reflected on Mbappe’s personality and the scrutiny the France captain has faced throughout his career.
“Mbappe has always been criticized in Paris… Did he take it in good humor? Of course. That’s Kylian. That’s Mbappe, and he’s used to criticism.”
Kimpembe explained that the forward had become accustomed to intense media attention from a young age and rarely allowed criticism to affect him.
“Mbappe grew up with this, so it is not surprising to him… In general, the press criticizes him very harshly at times.”
The defender then recalled a humorous moment between the pair linked to criticism surrounding Mbappe’s defensive work-rate.
“They criticize him for not defending enough? I always told him that I get tired when he doesn’t run. And what did Kylian say to me? Mbappe’s response was very harsh.”
Although Kimpembe did not elaborate on the exact reply, he presented the incident as part of the friendly relationship that existed between the two players during their time together at PSG.
Beyond the humorous exchange, Kimpembe also highlighted what he described as Mbappe’s exceptional mentality and leadership qualities.
“Mbappe has tremendous mental strength. He is very strong. Mbappe has already proven that, whether with Paris Saint-Germain, with the French national team, or even with Real Madrid. He is able to lead the team and raise its morale. Kylian is a truly great player, and everyone knows that.”
Mbappe left Paris Saint-Germain after years as the club’s central figure and has since continued his career with Real Madrid.
Kimpembe also reflected on the experience of sharing a dressing room with some of football’s biggest names during PSG’s era of superstar signings.
Speaking about Mbappe, Neymar and Messi, he said: “I am very happy that I played with them. I am very proud that I played with players of this level. If someone had told me this 15 years ago, I would not have believed it.”
The comments provide a glimpse into the atmosphere inside the PSG squad during one of the club’s most high-profile periods, when the French champions assembled several of the world’s most recognisable players.
Kimpembe, a long-serving PSG defender before moving to Qatar SC, remains closely associated with that generation of players and appeared keen to underline both Mbappe’s resilience and his importance within the teams they shared together.
Despite the criticism that has frequently surrounded Mbappe throughout his career, Kimpembe’s remarks painted the picture of a player capable of handling pressure while maintaining confidence and influence both on and off the pitch.
