France star Kylian Mbappe faces FIFA punishment ahead of England World Cup quarter final
France will meet England in the World Cup quarter-final on Saturday night as Kylian Mbappe scored his sixth and seventh goals of the tournament to dispatch Poland 3-1 yesterday
France superstar Kylian Mbappe has stated his intention to pay any fines the France Football Federation will be hit with after the striker’s refusal to partake in media duties in Qatar. The PSG man has twice refused to take part in post-game press conferences after collecting the man of the match award.
As per FIFA rules, the official tournament man of the match at every game must take part in an interview as seen with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Lionel Messi and Kai Havertz. However, Mbappe has refused to do so when called upon and has explained his reasoning.
Mbappe was named man of the match in France’s Group C victories over Australia and Denmark, where he netted three goals across both games. However, on both occasions, the 23-year-old decided against speaking to the media and it’s believed his decision comes because Budweiser sponsors FIFA
The Frenchman has made it clear of his own personal mission to avoid endorsing anything alcohol or gambling related during his career and he has stuck with his stance throughout the tournament in the Middle east. Mbappe hasn’t shied away from any potential punishment for his actions during the World Cup, declaring his willingness to pay any fine the FFF are faced with.
“People have been asking why I haven’t appeared in front of the media,” said Mbappe after scoring twice in France’s 3-1 win over Poland. “I just needed to focus on the tournament and on football.
“When I want to concentrate, that is how I do it. I heard the FFF is going to get fined, so I will pay it as I don’t think the FFF should pay on my behalf.
“This is the competition of dreams and I’m delighted to be here and I wanted to be ready.
“I’ve been preparing all season, physically and mentally, but we are still a long way from the ultimate objective.”
