Ousmane Dembele has dismissed suggestions of tension with Kylian Mbappe, saying the France players remain in regular contact and that he has no interest in social-media arguments.
Speaking at a press conference before France’s Nations League match against Italy this afternoon, Dembele was asked about earlier comments made by both players concerning the Ballon d’Or.
The France forward declined to revisit the subject.
“No, nothing. As I said, I won’t comment on these things. Those little social media spats… I’m already 29 years old, and I really don’t have time to pay attention to that. I focus on what happens on the pitch,” he said.
A journalist jokingly described Dembele as the “chosen player” for the news conference before asking whether he and Mbappe were still friends.
Dembele again played down the significance of their online exchanges and said their relationship remained normal.
“As I said, those things on social media… Yes, we communicate, and we sit next to each other at the table. There are no problems,” he replied.
Dembele was also asked whether France performed differently when Mbappe was absent from the team.
He rejected the idea that the national side changed significantly without its captain, while acknowledging Mbappe’s importance to the squad.
“There is no difference. Mbappe is an important player for the national team, and he has proven that over many years. He has scored many goals and is the team captain. When he is here, we are all happy,” Dembele said.
He added that France had enough strength across the squad for other players to take responsibility when required.
“Of course, other players can also step up. This is a team; all 23 players are important. That’s what matters most.”
