Kylian Mbappé recently hinted at a possible future in Florida, engaging in playful banter about a potential move to Major League Soccer, spurred by David Beckham’s enthusiasm for a reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
“We will see, I don’t know,” he remarked. “The American culture is different. There are no limits to ambitions, I like it.”
However, as he prepares to step onto the field in Miami this Saturday, he carries the weight of unfulfilled aspirations following a disappointing semi-final exit. The upcoming third-place playoff features prominent names but lacks the significance of a final, leaving lingering regrets from France’s defeat by Spain—a loss that marks their third consecutive setback against the European champions.
France’s lackluster performance on Tuesday accelerates the passage of time for Mbappé, who will be 31 when the next World Cup unfolds. By then, he could have amassed around 700 appearances, raising concerns about the sustainability of his explosive playing style as he approaches his fourth decade. While Mbappé has already secured his legacy, this tournament appeared to be a prime opportunity for further affirmation of his status.
There remains a chance to etch his name into history. Currently tied with Messi for the Golden Boot with eight goals, Mbappé trails slightly due to Messi’s four assists compared to his three.
Yet, this achievement feels insufficient to him. His disappointment was evident as he assessed the situation, which could be interpreted as a critique of Didier Deschamps’ tactical decisions.
France struggled in midfield, with Dani Olmo providing balance that Michael Olise could not match. Mbappé was largely absent from the action before attempting several long-range shots in the later stages. The team prioritized individual brilliance over cohesive strategy, hoping that a moment of magic could change their fortunes.
The frustration deepens because Mbappé had started the tournament strong, overcoming a lackluster end to the season with Real Madrid and navigating the early challenges faced by France. A sense of unfinished business has become palpable.
“I would change Argentina 2022,” he stated when asked about rewriting his past. “That final comes to mind more than the one we won.”
The memory of his hat-trick in Lusail, followed by a penalty shootout loss, remains a painful reminder. A potential rematch against Messi and Argentina in New Jersey could have served as a fresh narrative and solidified his position as the best in the world.
Instead, he must now embark on a less illustrious journey. “We have to move on to the next chapter,” Mbappé declared. “Because football waits for no one. We have to start over, put this failure behind us, and learn from it.”
There are no indications that he will step away from international duties. Zinedine Zidane is likely to take over from Deschamps, raising questions about whether two of France’s greatest players can effectively collaborate.
Even if their partnership passes initial scrutiny, Zidane has been absent from coaching for five years since leaving Real Madrid. He and Mbappé must find a way to leverage their individual brilliance while fostering a cohesive approach that has eluded France in contrast to Spain’s success.
The version of Mbappé that France will encounter in 2030 may depend on his achievements in the interim, particularly whether he secures a Champions League title, with or without a European Championship in two years. It would have been unimaginable, after his breakout performance in Russia 2018, that twelve years could pass without him claiming another major trophy.
While opportunities will continue to arise, the implications of missed chances are becoming a topic of discussion. The idea of being associated with near misses would be unappealing to Mbappé.
Perhaps one day, Beckham and Inter Miami will entice him, similar to Messi’s late-career move that has benefitted his longevity with Argentina. Such a shift could ensure that World Cup opportunities remain within reach.
In theory, Mbappé could still lead France’s aspirations in Saudi Arabia 2034 and beyond. However, witnessing his anguish at Dallas Stadium raises doubts about whether his best chance to achieve those lofty ambitions has slipped away.
- Kylian Mbappé
- France
- World Cup 2026
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