Zinedine Zidane has publicly criticized Kylian Mbappé for his handling of the captain’s armband during France’s 3-1 friendly win over Colombia on March 29.
Coming on as a 78th-minute substitute, Mbappé gestured to teammate Ryan Cherki to retrieve the armband from N’Golo Kanté, who was wearing it on the pitch. Cherki collected it and passed it to Mbappé, who then entered as France’s captain.
Zidane, a French football legend, reportedly reacted, “Honestly… what Mbappé did was really disrespectful,” he said. “You don’t just walk up to a senior player like N’Golo Kanté and casually demand the captain’s armband like you’re asking for a bottle of water. Kanté has been quietly giving everything… without seeking the limelight. It’s about respect and the team’s culture.” he stated.
France’s goals came from Désiré Doué (two) and Marcus Thurau, with Colombia’s goal from Jaminton Campaz. The match in Maryland served as a World Cup warm-up. Mbappé played the final 12 minutes.