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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 26: Bremer of Brazil runs with the ball against Kylian Mbappe of France during the international friendly match between Brazil and France at Gillette Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappe has expressed genuine sadness over Italy’s absence from the 2026 World Cup, declaring his love for the country and its people as he prepares for what could be the most record-laden tournament of his career.
The Real Madrid forward, who captains France at a World Cup for the first time, told reporters, via TMW, he feels a deep personal connection to Italy through his time at Paris Saint-Germain alongside Gianluigi Donnarumma, Marco Verratti and Gianluigi Buffon.
“I am very fond of Italy,” Mbappe said. “I have played with great Italian players, I have many friends there and when I can I go on holiday in your country. I feel wonderful there, the people are incredibly kind to me. It is a real shame because Italy is a great footballing country.”
Mbappe chases three records in North America including Klose’s all-time World Cup goals mark
On the expanded 48-team World Cup format that has allowed several smaller nations to qualify for the first time, Mbappe was broadly positive while acknowledging the downside for traditional powers who have missed out.
“It is an incredible opportunity for many national teams,” he said. “Even if I must say it – I am very sorry for Italy.”
Beyond the sentiments, Mbappe arrives in North America with a historic personal agenda. He currently sits on 12 World Cup goals – four behind the all-time record of 16 set by Germany and Lazio legend Miroslav Klose.
Mbappe will also be targeting Olivier Giroud’s record as France’s all-time top scorer and Just Fontaine’s record as France’s highest scorer at a single World Cup tournament, making this summer a potentially unprecedented chapter in his career.
