Mueez Ajao
– France striker Kylian Mbappe has said his image rights dispute with the French Football Federation (FFF) was a “collective move” to help fellow teammates.
– On Monday Mbappe refused to participate in a team photo and sponsor activities scheduled this week because he does not want to endorse some brands, including fast food chains and betting companies, under contract with the national team.
– Mbappe’s stance was supported by senior players in the squad, including goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and defender Raphael Varane, who were included in a meeting with the FFF before training on Monday and lead to the federation deciding to review its agreement on players’ image rights.
Also Read: French Federation promises changes after Mbappe’s photoshoot protest
– “[The group] has always been behind me,” Mbappe said after France defeated Austria 2-0 in the Nations League on Thursday. “From the beginning, it was a collective move.
– “It’s just that I don’t have any problem going to the front of the stage, fighting for my teammates. As I said, it’s not a big deal to take criticism. I’m used to it.
– “It’s not going to change the way I play, or the way I live my life, and if it can help the group get what they want, that’s the main thing.”
– On Sunday, France will face Denmark in their final match before the World Cup, which begins in Qatar on Nov. 20.
