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Mbappe Criticizes AI Dictator Memes, Citing Lack of Political Awareness
Confirmed
In Short: Kylian Mbappe has spoken out against AI-generated memes depicting him as a dictator, saying they show a lack of political and human awareness.
The Real Madrid and France forward, 27, acknowledged the humorous aspect of the AI-generated meme but emphasized that it downplays serious issues. "With Ousmane, it’s something is different," Mbappe told France Football magazine, referencing the "Mobut" nickname he was called by teammate Ousmane Dembele during the 2026 World Cup.
The meme, which began circulating on social media a few months ago, was created at the end of Real Madrid's last season, when the club ended without a trophy and two fired managers. It gained traction after Mbappe signed a new contract with PSG in May 2022, snubbing a move to Madrid.
What's confirmed
- "On one hand, I know it's done lightheartedly and doesn't go that far, but it sometimes reveals a lack of political and human awareness among people." Mbappe also referenced the "Mobut" nickname he was called by France team-mate Ousmane Dembele during the 2026 World Cup.
What's still developing
- Asked by France Football magazine how he felt about the memes, Mbappe acknowledged the humour, but said he did not like being compared to figures associated with tragedies.
- France international and World Cup record holder Kylian Mbappe speaks out over memes using his image during 2026 edition.
- Kylian Mbappe did not fully enjoy the flurry of AI memes depicting him as a dictator on social media during the World Cup.
- Kylian Mbappe is the World Cup's leading all-time scorer with 22 goals Kylian Mbappe has criticised a viral meme which superimposes his face on the body of a dictator, saying it shows "a lack of political and human awareness".
- It is seemingly used by some fans on social media to reflect the way Mbappe dominates matches, while others have suggested it refers to his influence at clubs.
- That nickname comes from Mobutu Sese Seko, the dictator who ruled the Democratic Republic of Congo - formerly Zaire - for three decades.
- If you continue, we\'ll assume that you are happy with our cookies policy A few months ago, a meme started spreading on social media, depicting French player Kylian Mbappé as a dictator, using AI generated images.
- Then, World Cup started, and Mbappé's (alleged) big influence in both teams earned him the role of "dictator".