Kylian Mbappe Details Friendship and Rivalry with Barcelona's Jules Kounde
Kylian Mbappe has provided insight into his friendship with Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, acknowledging a competitive dynamic influenced by their respective clubs. Mbappe stated that Kounde and Barcelona have recently held the upper hand against him and Real Madrid. Despite this ongoing banter, the French national teammates ensure their club rivalries do not impact their harmony within the national team.
Kylian Mbappe has offered a glimpse into his friendship with Barcelona star Jules Kounde, his teammate on the French national team. Mbappe indicated that their interactions have become more competitive since he moved to Spain, remarking, “We roast each other way more than when I was in PSG.”
The Real Madrid forward acknowledged that Kounde and Barcelona have “had one over him and Real Madrid recently,” suggesting a period of success for the Catalan club. He added, “He’s had the last word a bit more lately since we are not winning at Real Madrid.”
Mbappe emphasized that despite the friendly rivalry stemming from their club allegiances, it never impacts the atmosphere within the French national team. He stated that both players “have always known how to keep things separate with the national team” when representing France.
Describing Kounde as a close friend, Mbappe mentioned they discuss various topics, including politics. Kounde, who is an important right-back for Didier Deschamps' French squad, reportedly had a successful 2024/25 season with Barcelona under Hansi Flick. His 2025/26 campaign, however, saw a dip in form and consistent injuries.
Mbappe, who has yet to win a trophy with Real Madrid, expressed hope for a change in fortunes during the upcoming 2026/27 season.
(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)
