L'Équipe: Mbappé and Bellingham Have Had Confrontations but Respect Each Other; Third-Place Match Will Be a Direct Showdown
L'Équipe reports on the complex relationship between Real Madrid teammates Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham ahead of the World Cup third-place match between France and England. The two strong-willed players have experienced both conflict and mutual respect since Mbappé joined Real Madrid in 2024. Spanish media have highlighted tensions, including an alleged halftime argument during a La Liga match in February and a moment in May when Bellingham appeared to avoid Mbappé after a game. Coach Ancelotti's tactical shift moving Bellingham to the left wing to accommodate Mbappé reportedly caused friction. Mbappé is expected to play in the match, competing for the Golden Boot, while Bellingham's participation is uncertain after England's elimination by Argentina. Their potential interactions on and off the pitch will be closely watched.
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