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Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has come out in support of Kylian Mbappe, stating that the French striker has been unfairly singled out during a challenging second season at Real Madrid. According to the veteran coach, Mbappe has been used as a 'scapegoat' at the Santiago Bernabeu, but he expects the player to rediscover his best form at the upcoming World Cup.

Mbappe as Real Madrid's 'scapegoat'

Wenger did not hold back in his evaluation of Mbappe’s situation in Spain, suggesting that the forward has become the convenient target for criticism in a Real Madrid squad that no longer operates with its former dominance. Despite scoring 42 goals across all competitions, Mbappe has faced heavy scrutiny amid reports of dressing room unrest.

“There’s one man who is at the centre of all expectations: Kylian Mbappe,” Wenger told Le Figaro. “I’m ready to bet on it, he’s going to have a fantastic World Cup. He’s been unfairly criticised often this season. He joined an average Real Madrid team. Real have three or four world-class players now, whereas before they had ten. Football always looks for someone to blame, and he’s become that person.”

Freshness rather than fatigue

While some observers worry that Mbappe’s limited appearances due to injuries this season might have disrupted his rhythm, Wenger views the situation differently. He believes that the reduced workload could actually benefit France, as the intense European calendar often leaves players drained before major tournaments. The 27-year-old forward, in contrast, may arrive at the World Cup in North America full of energy.

“Kylian has everything it takes to shine at the World Cup. He’s physically fresh, not overworked,” Wenger explained. “I’ve seen players who played 60 matches before a World Cup tell me, ‘I’m not improving in training and my legs are gone,’ but he’s not one of them. Many international players arrive completely exhausted. I haven’t seen many who performed brilliantly at a World Cup just after a Champions League final.”

France seen as tournament favourites

Wenger is confident that Didier Deschamps’ squad will be the team to beat in the United States. With immense depth and balance across all positions, the ex-Arsenal boss believes that France possess a level of “power” unmatched by any other nation — especially under the experienced leadership of Deschamps.

“I rate them above the rest. France have tremendous talent and Deschamps brings experience,” Wenger said. “We have so many attacking players that the only danger is being too attack-minded. But today’s modern players, even forwards, know their defensive responsibilities. When you’re at 0-0 against France with 20 minutes left, you usually lose. Their power makes the difference.”

Set for the big occasion

Despite a recent dip in goal-scoring form, including a match where Michael Olise scored a hat-trick, confidence in Mbappe within the French camp remains high. Wenger emphasised that the captain’s temperament and character make him perfectly suited for the pressure of international tournaments, where he has already proven his worth in 2018 and 2022.

“Kylian has a strong personality and knows how to rise to big occasions. He’s just waiting for his moment. People tend to forget his extraordinary ability,” Wenger concluded. France will kick off their World Cup campaign against Senegal at the MetLife Stadium, before facing Iraq and Norway in their Group I fixtures.

How far will France go at the World Cup?