Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé was seen training with teammates at Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines, just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, recent photographs of the French captain enjoying a jet ski ride and quality time on a luxurious yacht with his girlfriend, actress Ester Expósito, have ignited a firestorm of criticism among fans and pundits alike.
Vacation Photos Spark Fan Outrage
The exact timing of the snapshots remains unconfirmed, but speculation suggests they were taken last week, shortly before the World Cup is scheduled to commence. The images show Mbappé and Expósito seemingly carefree, which has drawn sharp reactions from supporters who question his dedication to the national team.
One fan posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Mbappé's end will be like Neymar's. They ruined themselves when they could have been the world's best.” Another wrote: “World Cup in 10 days, turtle doing laps on a jet ski? Come on then, will France take Ester to the stands for the final?”
A third comment read: “This guy went on a secret getaway from Real for this woman. Now they're enjoying themselves alone together. There's a World Cup going on, but she doesn't seem to care much about it either.” Another fan added: “10 days until the world cup and what is this moron doing.”
Mbappé Stays Focused on the Tournament
Despite the backlash, Mbappé appears determined to block out the noise and concentrate on his responsibilities as captain of the French national team. In a recent interview, he discussed his mindset heading into the tournament: “I'm the captain of the team. It's different now. It's a different responsibility. But I'm ready for that, ready to lead my team to the biggest stage game, and I hope that we are gonna go back with the trophy in Paris and in the Champs-Elysees.”
He added: “I think when you play, you don't think about the legacy. You think about to perform, and to bring the trophy home.”
About the Author
Mahima Roy is a seasoned sports writer who covers the NFL and NBA with a mix of passion, insight, and storytelling. With a Master’s in Media Management, she dives into everything from game-day drama to the cultural moments that shape today’s athletes. When she’s not working, she immerses herself in the world of pop culture, from dissecting iconic films to tracking the latest in hip-hop and sports documentaries. For Mahima, it’s all about the stories on the field and beyond.
