Former France international Emmanuel Petit has delivered a sharp critique of Kylian Mbappé, arguing that the forward’s arrival at Real Madrid CF has disrupted the team’s balance and contributed to a disappointing season.
Mbappé joined the Spanish club in the summer of 2024 on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain F.C. expired. Expectations were high following the move, but results have not matched the anticipation.
Real Madrid have endured a series of setbacks, most recently exiting the UEFA Champions League at the quarter-final stage following defeat to FC Bayern Munich. Their campaign has yielded only limited success, with the European Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup standing as their sole trophies.
“It’s a Disaster” – Petit’s Assessment
Speaking in comments reported by the Daily Mail, Petit was highly critical of the atmosphere within the Real Madrid squad since Mbappé’s arrival.
“The fault is not Mbappe’s alone, but his arrival has filled the Real Madrid dressing room with selfishness, it’s a disaster,” he said.
The former midfielder suggested that the timing of Mbappé’s move has also worked against him, pointing to contrasting fortunes at his former club.
PSG “More United” Without Mbappé
Petit argued that Paris Saint-Germain have improved collectively since Mbappé’s departure, describing a more cohesive team dynamic.
“The timing is completely against Mbappe. Since Paris Saint-Germain started playing as a team, their performance has been amazing. They are all united, like the fingers of a hand,” he added.
His remarks highlight a broader debate about the balance between individual talent and team cohesion, particularly at elite clubs where expectations are consistently high.
Camavinga Incident Also Under Scrutiny
While critical of Mbappé’s influence, Petit acknowledged that other factors contributed to Real Madrid’s European exit. He pointed to the late dismissal of Eduardo Camavinga during the decisive match against Bayern Munich.
“If anyone deserves blame, it’s Camavinga. His tackle was disastrous,” Petit said.
He also commented on the decision made by referee Slavko Vinčić, suggesting that while the red card appeared severe, it was in line with the rules.
“At that moment in the match (minute 86), the red card was very harsh, but unfortunately, referee Slavko Vinčić was just applying the rules. Real Madrid always makes excuses about the referee’s performance.”
Mounting Pressure on Mbappé
Mbappé’s individual form has reportedly declined in the latter part of the season, intensifying scrutiny around his performances. At 27, the forward remains one of the most high-profile players in world football, but expectations at Real Madrid are uniquely demanding.
Petit’s comments reflect growing criticism from former players and analysts, who question whether Mbappé’s presence has altered the team’s dynamics in a negative way.
A Season Defined by Questions
With Real Madrid’s Champions League hopes ended and domestic form under pressure, the focus now shifts to how the club responds. Mbappé’s role within the squad is likely to remain under close examination as the season concludes.
For Petit, the issue extends beyond results to the broader identity of the team. His assessment suggests that success at the highest level depends not only on individual brilliance but also on unity—an area where he believes Real Madrid have fallen short this season.
