sports

Mbappé: called 'mono' after missing Euro 2021 penalty

Kylian Mbappé told The Bridge Show he faced racial abuse after a missed Euro 2021 penalty, briefly considered leaving the France team, defended his defensive role at Real Madrid, and recounted several personal anecdotes.

Apr 2nd 2026 · France

Insights

  • On The Bridge Show Mbappé said people called him "mono" and insulted him after he missed the decisive penalty against Switzerland at Euro 2021.
  • He told the show the abuse made him consider quitting the French national team before the federation president persuaded him to stay.
  • Mbappé admitted he defends less than some teammates but said when he defends at Real Madrid his actions noticeably help the team.
  • He described the period after the missed penalty as feeling like a "living dead" after falling from hero status following the 2018 World Cup win.
  • He also shared lighter anecdotes about Gvardiol's celebration, playing Football Manager with Achraf Hakimi during the 2022 World Cup, and obtaining a French A driving license in Madrid.