Football
‘Natural leader’: Barca star hails Kylian Mbappe’s leadership quality

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been hailed for the leadership qualities he possessed as it’s claimed the qualities are natural.
Undoubtedly one of the best football players, Mbappe has continue to play at the highest level for club and country. The former PSG forward is currently the France national team captain and Barca star Jules Kounde acknowledged the Real Madrid forward’s humility as the captain of Les Bleus, stating that he’s always present for his team-mates.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Kounde said: “I’ve always found that he does it quite naturally. He’s very present for his teammates, very open to discussion, he shares responsibilities. Because of the player he is, he inspires respect and recognition from his teammates. It’s quite natural for him.”

Kylian Mbappe speaks with Jules Kounde as they warm up prior to the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final match between Portugal and France. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Mbappe was named France’s full-time captain in March 2023, in light of Hugo Lloris’ retirement from international football.
However, in 2024, the Real Madrid forward was not selected for two consecutive international breaks, which gave rise to speculation that all was not well between Mbappe and the rest of the dressing room and coaching staff.
These rumours were short-lived as Mbappe continues to be one of the pillars of the French side under Didier Deschamps. The talented forward now has a new target to look up to as he aims to become France’s all-time top scorer.
With just eight goals left to achieve the feat, Kounde’s kind words about Mbappe might help the Real Madrid forward grow stronger on and off the pitch.
