Kylian Mbappe defends Real Madrid teammate over on-field antics: ‘That’s just his style of play’

Kylian Mbappe is one of the players in contention for the Ballon d’Or 2026 which will be toughly contested, with Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane and Rodri also in contention.

Mbappe has done multiple interviews in the recent past trying to promote his bid for the Ballon d’Or and even reacting to the viral ‘Dictator’ meme online.

Now, in a fresh interview with BILD (h/t AS), Mbappe talked about Michael Olise being linked to Real Madrid as well as Antonio Rudiger and Cristiano Ronaldo playing until 41, among other things.

The French captain came to the defence of his Real Madrid teammate Antonio Rudiger, who often receives criticism in Germany for his on-pitch conduct.

Mbappe was keen to separate the player from the person. “I think many fans think he’s a bit crazy. But that’s just his style of play. Antonio is the best example that you shouldn’t judge people solely by how they behave on the field,” he explained.

“Of course, on the pitch he’s crazy, the way he tackles and acts. But in the locker room he’s completely different. He’s a kind and considerate person,” he added.

Finally, Mbappe was asked about his childhood idol Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to play for Portugal at the age of 41, and whether he could see himself doing the same.

“We have to be honest, considering the country I play for: France will never let me play until I’m 41 (laughs). But Cristiano shows that if you’re physically and mentally fit, you can play at this high level for a long time,” Mbappe said.

“In my case, however, I don’t think that will be the case,” he noted.

Mbappe also explained that he fully understood why olise did not push for a move away from Bayern Munich in the summer, insisting it would have been wrong to try to persuade him to join Real Madrid.

“I heard about the speculation. But I know these kinds of situations very well: when I was a PSG player, there were countless rumours. And I think it would be disrespectful to advise a player to change clubs. It would be unfair to Bayern,” Mbappe said.

“Especially since Bayern is a great club where Michael can achieve a lot. But one thing is clear: any club in the world would want Michael Olise. He’s an extraordinary player,” he added.

Real Madrid were indeed after Olise as their big Galactico target, but the move did not materialise, with the club ending up signing Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig – a signing that has not worked out so far.