José Mourinho has defended Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid amid the ongoing fallout over the player’s comments regarding China, asserting that both parties handled the issue with great responsibility while warning of the risks of expressing opinions in today’s world.
Speaking during his press conference ahead of the La Liga fixture against Racing Santander, the Portuguese manager addressed the controversy after it expanded beyond football into multi-million euro sponsorship deals and broadcast rights.
Mourinho stated: “With the situation in China, these are the risks of today’s world, where often it is better not to open your mouth. There is danger in so many things you say or comment on.”
Regarding the French star’s response to the crisis, he added: “However, I saw him display immense responsibility,” while also praising Real Madrid’s swift actions to mitigate the repercussions of the remarks.
He continued: “As a coach, I feel my club and my player represent me very well,” explaining that his sense of reassurance stems from the immediate reaction of both parties and the dignity with which they handled the situation.
Concluding his stance on the matter, Mourinho remarked: “From our side, the matter is closed, and there is nothing more for us to do,” confirming that both the player and the club took all necessary steps in the wake of the incident.
Mourinho also praised Mbappé’s intelligence, maturity, and supreme self-confidence, pointing to his graceful handling of losing the Ballon d’Or to Harry Kane as evidence that the player’s self-belief does not prevent him from respecting opponents and acknowledging their achievements.
The controversy erupted after a clip circulated showing Mbappé commenting on a satirical meme overlaying his face onto the body of the late Chinese leader Mao Zedong, using the phrase “Chinese dictator.” Mbappé subsequently issued an apology, followed by official statements from La Liga and Real Madrid.
Despite the formal apologies, Spanish league matches were absent from Chinese state broadcaster CCTV‘s sports channels on Saturday, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP), though digital streaming continued on the Migu platform. Additionally, three Chinese sponsors have formally severed ties with the French forward.
