Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o has questioned the level of criticism directed at France captain Kylian Mbappé, arguing that the forward has not received the recognition his performances and achievements deserve.
Mbappé has been one of the standout players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring eight goals to share the tournament’s Golden Boot lead with Lionel Messi while helping France reach the semi-finals, where they are set to face Spain.
Despite those accomplishments, Eto’o believes the 27-year-old continues to face excessive scrutiny in his home country.
Eto’o praises Mbappé’s remarkable consistency
Speaking to Le Parisien, the former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker said Mbappé should be judged by the same standards applied to football’s greatest players.
“He simply deserves to be judged with the same fairness as other great champions. Perhaps it is time for France to fully realize how fortunate it is to have a player of this stature in its history.”
Eto’o also highlighted the France captain’s sustained excellence, insisting that Mbappé is repeatedly forced to justify his status despite compiling an extraordinary résumé.
“Despite his performances, his record numbers, his list of achievements, and his consistent level, he seems to constantly have to prove himself again.”
The Cameroon Football Federation president then questioned what more Mbappé must accomplish to earn universal recognition.
“What more does Kylian Mbappé have to achieve to be recognised as the best French player of his generation, or even as one of the greatest French players in history?”
Eto’o raises broader debate
Eto’o also suggested that discussions surrounding Mbappé may extend beyond football, saying it is reasonable to examine whether societal factors influence public perceptions of the France star.
“It is legitimate to ask a question, even if it is uncomfortable: Does Kylian’s mixed heritage, his origins, and what he represents in French society consciously or unconsciously influence how some people evaluate his career, his personality, and his positions?”
He added:
“This question deserves to be asked responsibly, not to make unfounded accusations, but because racism, prejudice, and bigotry still exist in our societies and should never be tolerated.”
Mbappé will have another opportunity to enhance his remarkable World Cup campaign when France face Spain in the semi-finals, as Les Bleus continue their pursuit of a third FIFA World Cup title.
