Kylian Mbappe

Jose Mourinho praised Kylian Mbappe as "insane" after his hat-trick led Real Madrid to a 4-1 La Liga victory over Real Sociedad at the Bernabeu. This marked Mourinho's second consecutive league win since his summer reappointment. Mbappe, the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot winner, scored twice assisted by Jude Bellingham, who also set up Vinicius Junior. Vinicius then assisted Mbappe's third. Mourinho highlighted Mbappe's teamwork and the fans' unified support, contrasting with previous booing.

6 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 30, 06:10 PM UTC

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi, now 39, broke Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring record by netting a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria, bringing his total to 18 goals. Argentina secured top spot in their group, set to face Jordan next. Messi’s birthday on June 24 sparked global tributes from FIFA, teammates, and clubs, highlighting his enduring impact. He previously scored in a friendly against Iceland as preparation, declaring the team’s hunger for victory.

75 reports · 14 sources · Updated Jul 30, 12:57 AM UTC

The French Football Federation (FFF) is finalizing Zinedine Zidane’s appointment as head coach of Les Bleus, succeeding Didier Deschamps after his final match—a World Cup third-place playoff against England on July 18, 2026. Zidane’s contract, reportedly worth €300,000–€450,000 monthly, begins September 1. He plans a major staff overhaul, including assistants from Real Madrid and Fabien Barthez as goalkeeping coach. The official announcement is expected within a week, with the first matches in Nations League games against Turkey, Belgium, and Italy.

52 reports · 15 sources · Updated Jul 29, 09:11 AM UTC

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe and Spanish actress Ester Exposito were spotted on a luxury shopping spree in Paris following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The couple visited exclusive boutiques including Dior, Jacquemus, and Messika, and were later seen dining at the iconic La Girafe restaurant. Videos shared on Instagram by celebrity news account Vendetta_Dailly show the pair looking relaxed. This outing follows recent sightings in Miami and a luxury yacht holiday in Ibiza. The relationship has attracted significant social media attention, though neither has publicly confirmed it in interviews. Mbappe is preparing to return to training with Real Madrid for the upcoming season.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 12:34 PM UTC

On July 23, 2026, Real Madrid and Adidas officially released the club's new away kit for the 2026-27 season. The dark green jersey features off-white details, a subtle geometric pattern with the club's initials, and the retro Adidas Trefoil logo. Key players including Mbappé, Bellingham, and Vinicius modeled the kit. A matching goalkeeper kit in light blue was also unveiled. The shirt is available for 100 euros.

7 reports · 4 sources · Updated Jul 23, 10:44 AM UTC

Seven writers from The Athletic each selected their best XI from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the constraint of a maximum of two players per nation. The article discusses the selections, including notable omissions like Harry Kane and Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon, and highlights left-field picks such as Julian Quinones and Youri Tielemans. Writers provide reasoning for their choices, with Oliver Kay opting for Spain's Rodri and Pau Cubarsi, Cape Verde's Diney, and Egypt's Mostafa Shobeir in goal. Mark Carey offers a data-led approach, selecting Switzerland's Gregor Kobel, Colombia's Daniel Munoz, and England's Djed Spence. The piece also references FIFA's official 'Dream XI' featuring three Spanish players, three French, two Argentinians, and one each from England, Norway, and Cape Verde.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:20 PM UTC

According to research by Brand Finance, FIFA is set to generate approximately £3.8bn ($5.2bn) in profit from the 2026 World Cup, held across the US, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament created £45bn in enterprise value from £2bn in sponsorship, yielding a 22-fold return. Sponsors added an estimated £5.3bn to their combined brand value. The expanded 48-team, 104-match format saw continued high sponsor demand. Brand Finance's Richard Haigh noted FIFA's strong commercial model, where sponsors carry execution risk but still generate significant value. The article also covers England's 6-4 victory over France, with Kylian Mbappe becoming the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer with 22 goals, and England captain Harry Kane thanking fans after a semi-final defeat to Argentina.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 12:43 PM UTC

Zinedine Zidane is widely expected to become the next manager of the French national team, replacing Didier Deschamps who resigned after the 2026 World Cup. However, Zidane may inherit a deeply fractured squad, with Kylian Mbappe at the center of tensions. According to French media, there were heated exchanges between Deschamps and the French Football Federation (FFF) over travel, tickets, and player compensation. Mbappe reportedly led negotiations on World Cup bonuses and pushed for a cryotherapy chamber. After France's fourth-place finish, Mbappe publicly questioned Deschamps' tactics. Deschamps stated he resigned because the environment had become 'completely intolerable' and overly focused on him, not for the benefit of the team. The FFF has yet to confirm Zidane's appointment, but an announcement is expected before the end of July.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:45 AM UTC

Following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Athletic solicited reader suggestions for rule changes to the tournament and soccer in general. Responses ranged from banning offsides in the penalty area and shrinking the penalty box to stricter punishment for diving, eliminating mandatory hydration breaks, and implementing an accurate scoreboard clock. Readers also criticized VAR delays and the half-time show in the final. The article compiles these fan perspectives, reflecting both first-time viewers and long-time followers of the sport, and highlights ongoing debates about the balance between tradition, entertainment, and fairness in modern soccer.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:30 AM UTC

Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute after Argentina’s Enzo Fernández was sent off. Spain dominated possession and prevented Argentina from registering a single shot on target over 120 minutes. The victory gave Spain their second World Cup title, avenging Argentina’s 2022 win. Lionel Messi and Argentina struggled offensively, while Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón had a quiet night.

62 reports · 18 sources · Updated Jul 23, 01:00 PM UTC

French magazine SO FOOT journalist Diop published an analysis of the 2025 Ballon d'Or race, stating no clear frontrunner exists. He dismisses Ousmane Dembele's chances, noting Mbappe remains France's leader and Kvaratskhelia was Champions League best player. Michael Olise, despite being World Cup assist leader and Bundesliga Player of the Year, lacked decisive performances in key matches. Diop questions whether Fabian Ruiz, who won both Champions League and World Cup but was not best player in either, should be a top candidate, suggesting the evaluation system may be flawed. Lamine Yamal, with La Liga and World Cup titles, is talented but had only one World Cup goal and no individual awards. Diop argues the Ballon d'Or should reward the best season performance, not just talent.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:46 AM UTC

According to a post on the RedCafe forum, YouTuber Alvarez de Mon, who is described as having good sources, claims that Luka Modric will not continue at Real Madrid next season. The report suggests Modric will leave his iconic number 10 jersey to Kylian Mbappe. The post praises Modric as an absolute legend of the club, noting he could potentially bid farewell by winning his sixth European Cup in twelve seasons after a spectacular performance. Forum users debate the rumor, with some calling Alvarez de Mon a journalist and club member rather than just a YouTuber, while others discuss Modric's legacy and potential next moves, including a possible free transfer to Manchester United.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:45 PM UTC

This article from The Athletic, published July 21, 2026, presents Real Madrid as a source of blockbuster drama following the World Cup. It highlights the club's unmatched success: 15 Champions League titles and 36 Spanish league titles, making them FIFA's greatest club of the 20th century. The piece emphasizes the club's epic, comeback-driven narratives, citing dramatic Champions League victories in 2021-22 and 2023-24. It also notes the internal tensions and power struggles of the 2025-26 season, positioning the club as a mix of epic adventure and political intrigue. The authors, as Real Madrid correspondents, aim to separate myth from reality while explaining the club's enduring appeal and emotional ride for fans.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:00 PM UTC

This analysis piece from The Hindu examines why Spanish midfielder Rodri won the Golden Ball award at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite not scoring a single goal or assist. The article argues that Rodri's defensive midfield mastery—highlighted by a record 26 tackles and 790 passes—was more impactful than the flashier statistics of Lionel Messi (8 goals, 4 assists) or Kylian Mbappe (10 goals, 4 assists). Rodri captained Spain to their second world crown, conceding only one goal in the tournament. The piece notes Rodri is the first outfield player to win the Best Player award without a goal or assist, and details his unprecedented trophy collection including World Cup, Euro, Champions League, Premier League, and Ballon d'Or. It also mentions the upcoming Ballon d'Or race where Harry Kane's 73 goals challenge Rodri's championship credentials.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:48 PM UTC

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, was a record-breaking event with 48 nations, 104 matches, and nearly 7 million spectators. The tournament captured the American imagination, transforming football from an immigrant game into a national obsession. Key storylines included Lionel Messi's record-extending 34th World Cup appearance at age 39, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland's standout performances, and surprise runs by Cape Verde and Egypt. Spain, Argentina, France, and England reached the semifinals, with Rodri named the tournament's best player. The article notes the event's scale and passion but acknowledges flaws in the expanded format.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:45 PM UTC

Lamine Yamal, the 19-year-old FC Barcelona forward, won the 2026 World Cup with Spain just days after his birthday. Despite a relatively quiet tournament due to injuries, his global profile has skyrocketed. Yamal reportedly earns €30m ($35m) annually from Barcelona under a contract through 2031. His off-pitch earnings, including a 10-year, $34m deal with Adidas and endorsements from Coca-Cola, Beats by Dre, Visa, and Konami, are valued at about $10m per year. Analysts expect this figure to rise significantly after his World Cup victory, though he still trails Lionel Messi ($70m), Cristiano Ronaldo ($65m), and Kylian Mbappe ($30m) in annual off-pitch income. The article highlights Yamal's growing brand value and commercial potential.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:03 PM UTC

This article from RMC Sport Football compiles multiple news items about Brazilian footballer Vinicius Junior. It covers his reaction to Brazil's elimination from the 2026 World Cup by Norway, where he expressed deep sadness and apologized to fans. Other stories include a controversial stamp by Morocco's Achraf Hakimi on Vinicius during a World Cup match, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez defending Kylian Mbappe while retaining the Vinicius-Jude Bellingham duo, and Vinicius discussing his future at the club. The article also details tensions between Vinicius and Mbappe's camp, a romantic breakup controversy involving teammate Eder Militao, and the Vinicius-Prestianni affair where an Argentine player was suspended for homophobic insults. Additionally, it covers Vinicius mocking an opponent, his contract extension dividing Real Madrid, and fans jeering him, Mbappe, and Eduardo Camavinga after Champions League elimination. Vinicius is noted for actively fighting racism in stadiums.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:59 AM UTC

The Athletic's Real Madrid correspondent Guillermo Rai makes a case for following Real Madrid after the 2026 World Cup, framing the club as a source of blockbuster drama. The article highlights Real Madrid's unparalleled success: 15 Champions League titles (most recently in 2024) and 36 La Liga titles, far ahead of rivals. It emphasizes the club's dramatic comeback culture, citing the 2023-24 Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and the 2021-22 run against PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester City. The piece also acknowledges internal tensions and power struggles during the 2025-26 season, promising readers both myth and reality. The article features star players Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappe, who all starred at the World Cup.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:00 AM UTC

UK police seized counterfeit football shirts worth over £18 million during the World Cup as part of Operation Bloxwich, recovering more than 220,000 pieces of fake merchandise. The Fire Service warned that these unregulated shirts are highly flammable and contain harmful dyes, posing serious risks especially to children. Tests showed fake kits melted instantly when exposed to flame, while genuine shirts were far more resistant. Authorities highlighted that counterfeit goods are produced by criminal networks in appalling conditions and that buyers unknowingly fund organized crime. The low price of fakes (as little as £12) compared to official shirts (starting at £85) drives demand, but officials stressed the safety and ethical dangers outweigh any savings.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:12 AM UTC

Spanish 19-year-old center-back Pau Cubarsi won the World Cup with Spain and was named tournament Best Young Player. The Athletic column reveals his humble roots: born in the tiny Catalan village of Estanyol (195 residents) to a carpenter family, he made a wooden stool for his school graduation project. Despite debuting for Barcelona at 17, he remained in the La Masia dormitory until after turning 18, and on days off returns home to help his parents with carpentry work. His composure on the pitch—exemplified by shutting down Mbappe in the semi-final and making a miraculous clearance in the final against Argentina—stems from his grounded upbringing. He now lives with his sister Irene, a physiotherapy student, and maintains a quiet lifestyle, sleeping 10-12 hours daily.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:39 AM UTC

Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Athletic provides a guide for fans to follow 10 of the tournament's biggest stars as they return to club football. The article highlights Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), and Erling Haaland (Manchester City), detailing their World Cup performances and upcoming seasons. Messi, aged 39, led Argentina to the final with 8 goals but lost to Spain. Mbappe scored 10 goals for France, equaling a historic record. Haaland helped Norway reach the quarter-finals. The piece includes links to team and player pages on The Athletic for continued coverage.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:11 AM UTC

Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Spain emerged victorious, The Athletic provides a guide for fans to follow 10 of the tournament's biggest stars as they return to club football. The article profiles Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), and Erling Haaland (Manchester City), detailing their World Cup performances and what to expect next season. Messi, aged 39, will return to MLS with Inter Miami after leading Argentina to the final. Mbappe, who scored 10 goals for France, will continue at Real Madrid. Haaland's Norway had their best World Cup. The piece directs readers to dedicated team and player pages on The Athletic for continued coverage.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:11 AM UTC

The Athletic's data review of the 2026 World Cup highlights record-breaking goal rates (2.96 per game, highest since 1970), an overperformance of expected goals by 14%, and a historic Golden Boot race where Kylian Mbappe scored 10 goals to become the all-time World Cup top scorer with 22 goals. The expanded 48-team tournament produced 104 games, with Spain winning the final against Argentina. The analysis notes that six players scored six or more goals, a depth of scoring unprecedented in recent World Cups. The article also touches on tactical trends like late comebacks and ambitious passing, and questions whether the high goal volume is sustainable.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:08 AM UTC

This article from The Athletic provides a comprehensive data analysis of the 2026 World Cup, which saw Spain crowned champions after a dominant final against Argentina. Key findings include the highest goals-per-game rate (2.96) since 1970, with 37 more goals scored than expected goals (xG) would predict, marking a 14% overperformance. The expanded 48-team tournament produced 104 games and record-breaking individual performances, notably Kylian Mbappe winning the Golden Boot with 10 goals, becoming the all-time World Cup top scorer with 22 goals. Six players scored six or more goals, a depth of scoring unprecedented in recent tournaments. The article also notes 14 own goals, breaking the previous record of 12, and discusses tactical trends such as late comebacks and ambitious passing.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:08 AM UTC

The 2026 World Cup, the first expanded to 48 teams and 104 games across three host countries, set numerous records including 308 total goals and an average of 2.96 goals per game, the second-highest since 1966. The tournament was marked by unprecedented disparity in FIFA rankings between opponents (average gap of 27.3), leading to larger scorelines. Spain emerged as champions. The article analyzes how expanded participation, extreme travel distances, heat and humidity, and older starting XIs shaped the competition, with data on penalties, substitutes, and hydration breaks also highlighted.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:40 PM UTC

This article from The Athletic recounts the 2026 FIFA World Cup through 22 striking images. It highlights key moments such as Spain's championship victory, Rodri lifting the trophy, Raul Jimenez's emotional goal dedicated to his late father, Cristiano Ronaldo becoming the first player to score at six World Cups, and the USMNT's strong start with a 4-1 win over Paraguay. The tournament featured three host nations, full stadiums, late drama, and record TV viewership. Kylian Mbappe won the Golden Boot. The piece captures the global excitement and poignant stories behind the tournament.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:00 PM UTC

Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a team of 14 writers from The Athletic deliver their assessments of the tournament. Spain are crowned worthy champions after conceding only one goal throughout the competition, with analysts praising their collective strength, organization, and ability to peak at the right time. France and Argentina provided exhilarating moments but were outclassed by Spain. The article covers best and worst teams, surprising players, favorite moments, best host cities, and predictions for the 2030 World Cup. Key highlights include Spain's unbeaten run under coach Luis de la Fuente, Lamine Yamal's impact, and Kylian Mbappe winning the Golden Boot. The analysis emphasizes Spain's defensive solidity and midfield control as decisive factors in their victory.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:00 PM UTC

Sky Sports analyzes the controversial decision to award Rodri the Golden Ball as best player of the 2026 World Cup, which Spain won. Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder, led Spain to their second World Cup title, two years after their European Championship victory. He beat Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham for the award, sparking debate similar to his 2024 Ballon d'Or win. Sky Sports' Power Rankings place Messi, Mbappe, and Bellingham as the top three performers, with Rodri ranked 18th overall and only the seventh-best Spanish player. The article notes Rodri topped the tournament for touches but questions whether his impact justified the award over more statistically dominant players.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 03:00 PM UTC

Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 on Sunday to win its second World Cup title, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute of an otherwise scoreless match. Spanish captain Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball as best player, while goalkeeper Unai Simon received the Golden Glove after conceding only one goal in eight games. The Golden Boot went to France's Kylian Mbappe, who scored 10 goals in the tournament, outpacing Argentina's Lionel Messi with eight. The article notes that Spain's airtight defense left Messi without answers, and only Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's near-perfect performance prevented a larger defeat. President Donald Trump was loudly booed as he entered the field to hand out medals. The 2030 men's World Cup will be primarily co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, while Saudi Arabia is widely expected to host the 2034 competition. The next Women's World Cup is scheduled for Brazil.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 02:49 PM UTC

The article presents the ideal team of the 2026 World Cup, following Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal. The team selection is heavily dominated by Spanish players, reflecting their tournament win. In goal, England's Jordan Pickford is chosen over Spain's Unai Simon due to his heroic performances. The defense features Spanish right-back Pedro Porro, left-back Marc Cucurella, and center-back Pau Cubarsi, alongside France's Dayot Upamecano. Midfield includes Spain's Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, plus England's Jude Bellingham. The attack is led by Argentina's Lionel Messi (8 goals, 4 assists) and France's Kylian Mbappe (10 goals, 4 assists), the tournament's top scorer. Honorable mentions include several other standout players from various nations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 01:33 PM UTC