France star backed by teammates as he targets goals against Senegal in Group I clash.
Image: BBC
Kylian Mbappé will lead France into their World Cup opener against Senegal under growing scrutiny over his form and leadership.
The France captain failed to score in recent warm-up matches and ended his club season at Real Madrid without a major trophy.
Questions have also been raised about his leadership since becoming captain in 2023.
However, France teammates have defended him strongly.
Ousmane Dembélé said criticism of Mbappé has gone too far and called him an important leader for the team.
Defender Lucas Hernandez also said Mbappé remains fully focused and motivated for the tournament.
France remain among the favourites for the title as coach Didier Deschamps prepares for his final World Cup.
Mbappé has an impressive World Cup record with 12 goals in 14 matches.
He is close to the all-time tournament scoring record and could also move up France’s all-time scoring list.
