Top News

"Rising Tensions": Are Kylian Mbappé and Rayan Cherki Creating Friction Within the French National Team?
Deepa Krishnaswamy | June 7, 2026 10:28 PM CST

Kylian Mbappé and Rayan Cherki are reportedly upset over a recent decision taken by the French Football Federation (FFF).

According to a report by L'Equipe, the two prominent forwards of the French national side are dissatisfied because the federation allegedly granted their image rights to Betclic, a sports-betting company, for use in promotional campaigns.

The publication mentions that this move has led to an "extremely tense atmosphere" within the camp. Both Mbappé and Cherki are said to be "unhappy that several of their images were used in advertising for a betting firm, which is an official partner of the FFF," as detailed in the report.

Three other French national team players—Desire Doue, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembele—were also featured in the same advertisement. The photos were reportedly taken during a session at Clairefontaine, the national team's customary training centre, although the players were not informed about how the images would be used.

The players are now said to be seeking clarification from the federation.

It is understood that Mbappé and Cherki are not directing their frustration towards the betting sponsor itself. Instead, their concern lies with the French Football Federation, which they claim failed to properly communicate with them regarding the use of their likenesses.

Both footballers are believed to be demanding an official explanation and possibly a withdrawal of the campaign materials, though such action might only take place after the upcoming World Cup.

France will begin their Group I campaign against Senegal on 16 June, before facing Iraq in their second match and wrapping up the group stage with a clash against Norway.


READ NEXT
Cancel OK