Since the beginning of the tournament up to the quarter-finals, the new Real Madrid signing has only scored one goal from a penalty against Poland, a performance that has been deemed “disappointing” compared to the high expectations fans had for him.

Recently, France’s head coach Didier Deschamps spoke out in support of Kylian Mbappé amidst the criticism surrounding the forward’s performance at Euro 2024.

Speaking on the French television program Téléfoot, Deschamps reminded critics of Mbappé’s achievements in the sport.

Deschamps said: “Don’t you think he has made enough history already with what he has accomplished so far? He always aims to make more history. Those who criticize him don’t know anything about football.”

Deschamps continued: “We have done everything possible with him, with the medical team, to get him here. During the preparations, he also had a slight back issue, but Kylian is here and giving his best.”

Deschamps also addressed comments suggesting that Mbappé might be benched if he was not fully fit, especially after the injury he suffered in the group stage, in an effort to allow him to return to his best form.

Deschamps said: “Even if he’s not at 100% fitness, I know very well that the opponent will have to think and adapt knowing that he is on the field.”

Additionally, Mbappé has received strong support from his teammates, including Randal Kolo Muani and Youssouf Fofana, who spoke up after France secured their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.

Fofana said: “Kylian is the player who scored three goals in a World Cup final. I don’t know many players who have achieved that, I only know one.”

Kolo Muani added: “He [Mbappé] has the talent to lead a whole team. He has a lot of experience — I think he was born to lead a group forward.”

France will face Spain in the semi-finals on Wednesday (July 9, UK time) in Munich, promising a thrilling match where different football philosophies will collide.