The performance of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé and PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé has undergone a stunning transformation compared to their form last fall.
With the level they’re currently displaying, it’s almost a shame that the 2026 World Cup isn’t happening this summer. The French duo, expected to lead the attack for France in their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal first leg against Croatia on Thursday, March 20 (kickoff at 8:45 PM), have been dominating both their domestic leagues and the Champions League.
Since the start of 2025, Mbappé has been in exceptional form, scoring 17 goals for Real Madrid, including two hat-tricks. One of those, a spectacular display against Manchester City in the Champions League knockout round on February 19, reaffirmed his status as a game-changer. Just last weekend, he played a decisive role in his team’s comeback victory over Villarreal, scoring twice after Real Madrid had fallen behind 1-0.
Meanwhile, Ousmane Dembélé has been even more prolific. The PSG forward has netted 22 goals in 2025, also recording two hat-tricks. His consistency has made him Europe’s top scorer this year. He has also delivered in crucial matches, scoring a key goal against Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16 and opening the scoring against Marseille in Ligue 1 last weekend.
A Stark Contrast to Last Fall
The difference between their current form and their struggles just a few months ago is striking. Last autumn, both players were far from their best. Mbappé, in particular, was struggling both physically and mentally, following a disappointing European Championship in Germany and a turbulent end to his tenure at PSG. His difficulties extended into the fall, leading him to miss the French national team’s October and November training camps at Clairefontaine—a decision that sparked controversy. His name was also mentioned in Swedish media reports regarding a legal investigation.
Turning the Page: Didier Deschamps’ Visit to Madrid
Mbappé’s situation began to improve in early December. He broke his silence in an extensive interview with journalist Mouloud Achour on Canal+’s Clique, opening up after weeks of media withdrawal. Days later, on December 12, Swedish authorities announced they were dropping the investigation due to a lack of sufficient evidence.
These events seemed to act as a turning point. Since then, Mbappé has gradually returned to peak form—both on the pitch, where he’s once again a prolific scorer, and in the locker room, where his leadership has been evident. His visible joy during a recent team photoshoot with Didier Deschamps, who was seen laughing alongside him, is proof of his revived confidence.
“I’ve always said that playing for France is the most important thing for me,” Mbappé stated in an interview with TF1’s 20-Heures on Tuesday. “It’s great to be back with the team and to wear the blue jersey again on Thursday.” The forward also revealed that Deschamps personally visited him in Madrid to smooth over any lingering tensions regarding his national team absence.
“There are highs and lows in every athlete’s career,” Mbappé acknowledged. “You just have to stay focused on what you love doing—on working hard. And when you do that, things can turn around.”
