Ousmane Dembélé has once again been drawn into the minor controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappé. Speaking to the media with the France national team, the PSG forward could not hide a smile when a journalist told him he was the “chosen one” of the day to answer questions. It was a reaction that inevitably caught attention following Mbappé’s recent comments. Dembélé nevertheless insisted that there is no problem between the two players.
The moment lasted only a few seconds. “Hello Ousmane, I’m delighted that you’re the chosen one to speak to us today,” a journalist said. Dembélé broke into a broad smile before quickly regaining his composure. It was difficult not to see it as a reference to the word that has fuelled discussion in recent weeks about his relationship with Mbappé.
The “chosen one” phrase at the heart of the rumours
The controversy began after comments from Kylian Mbappé about the Ballon d’Or and the different paths taken by the two players. The France captain notably used the term “chosen one” when discussing how he had been viewed from a very early stage of his career, contrasting that with Dembélé’s journey as an immense talent who had to overcome several obstacles. The comparison was quickly interpreted as a dig at his former PSG teammate, while reports suggested that their relationship had become more distant. Both players, however, have consistently played down any suggestion of a conflict.
Dembélé has now done so again. Asked directly about his relationship with Mbappé, the PSG star replied: “I’ve spoken with Kylian, we sit next to each other at the table. There’s no problem.” Mbappé had also previously denied any tension. Despite the speculation surrounding their relationship, the two France internationals therefore continue to deliver the same public message: there is no conflict between them and nothing is disrupting the atmosphere within the national team.
Dembélé’s brief smile nevertheless adds another twist to the story. The Paris forward appears fully aware of the significance that has been attached to the word “chosen one.” While he can now smile about it, his main message was clear: as far as he is concerned, the Mbappé controversy is closed.
