World Cup 2026: Kylian Mbappe plans to step up defensive duties

France captain Kylian Mbappe has vowed to step up his defensive efforts as the two-time world champions prepare to open their World Cup campaign against Senegal on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old Real Madrid striker has faced scrutiny for both his performances and leadership for club and country, with international teammate Ousmane Dembele publicly backing him, saying the criticism had gone “too far”.

Speaking to French newspaper La Parisienne, Mbappe faced questions from teammates and friends and when younger brother Ethan, who plays for Ligue One side Lille, teased him about his defensive prowess, he admitted he has work to do.

“I have to go the extra mile (with my defensive work) because it’s something important for the team and I have to do it,” he said.

“This will start because we want to win, and to win, I am ready to do anything because I want to win at any cost.”