During a press briefing ahead of France’s Nations League tie with Italy, Dembélé confirmed he’s spoken with Mbappé despite rumours of a feud.
The journalist’s first question earned him a brief smile. He was there on Thursday, one day before the Friday 20:45 showdown with Italy.
He exchanged words with Mbappé
He brushed off the chatter, noting, “I won’t comment on online squabbles. At 29, I’m focused on the pitch, not drama.”
He added, “We’ve talked, we sat together, no issue.” On tactics, he was asked about playing as a central striker while Mbappé drifts left. In my view, the hype distracts from what matters.
He argued there’s no hierarchy. “Mbappé is vital, but success comes from the whole squad, not a few stars.”
RMC Sport reported the forwards often dine side‑by‑side, showing professionalism, yet witnesses say the closeness has faded since recent Ballon d’Or buzz.