In a striking shift in public perception, Kylian Mbappé’s popularity in France has seen a notable decline, according to a recent study conducted by Odoxa.
The survey, which questioned 1,005 individuals aged 18 and older, along with 434 amateur footballers, reveals a changing sentiment towards the 25-year-old forward and captain of the French national team.
The findings indicate that only 54% of respondents currently hold a positive opinion of Mbappé, marking a significant 12-point drop since a similar study was conducted in April.
This decline is further reflected in the way people view his likability; just 58% believe the star player is likable, a staggering decrease from 80% in 2019.
The survey also gauged opinions on Mbappé’s role as captain of the national team, with a slim majority of 52% supporting his leadership.
Conversely, 54% of participants expressed a desire for coach Didier Deschamps to appoint a different captain, with Antoine Griezmann, at 33 years old, emerging as the preferred candidate for 58% of respondents.
Despite the downturn in public favor, the survey suggests that many still anticipate success for Mbappé at Real Madrid, with 73% of those surveyed expressing confidence in his ability to thrive at the prestigious club. Furthermore, 57% of participants believe that Real Madrid would be a stronger team with him on board.
Interestingly, while the public sentiment towards Mbappé himself appears to be waning, opinions on Ligue 1’s competitiveness remain largely unaffected by his potential absence.
A notable 59% of respondents indicated that Ligue 1 is not less enjoyable without the French star.
However, when it comes to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), 52% of those surveyed felt that the team is weaker for losing Mbappé, highlighting his impact on the club’s strength.
This decline in popularity raises questions about the factors influencing public perception of the football star. Increased scrutiny on player behavior, performance, and the pressures of being in the spotlight could contribute to this trend.
As Mbappé navigates the complexities of being a global sports icon, the response from fans and the football community may shift further.
In conclusion, while Kylian Mbappé remains a formidable player on the field, the Odoxa study reveals a complex relationship with the French public.
With his future at Real Madrid seeming bright and his on-field talent unquestionable, it remains to be seen how he will work to mend his public image and regain the affection of football fans in France.
The next steps he takes will be crucial in shaping not only his career trajectory but also his standing among supporters who once adored him.
