Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho declared on Saturday that the Spanish club's involvement in the controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe's remarks about an online meme involving former Chinese leader Mao Zedong is officially over, following prompt apologies from both the forward and the institution.
Mbappe's comments triggered widespread backlash in China, prompting Real Madrid, the French international, and La Liga to issue formal apologies. Despite these efforts, Chinese state television proceeded to remove Spanish football matches from its broadcast schedules.
What caused the controversy surrounding Mbappe?
In a now-deleted excerpt from an interview with the French media program "The Bridge," Mbappe remarked that he found amusement in an internet meme featuring his face digitally superimposed onto an image of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Mocking Mao remains a deeply sensitive subject in China due to his historical legacy, turning the 27-year-old forward into the latest international sports personality to provoke strong reactions from Beijing.
Mourinho defended his player and club during a press conference, emphasizing that both parties demonstrated high standards by addressing the mistake immediately.
"I've witnessed a lot of responsibility from a club which, at this level, is a club of great class, and as far as we're concerned, that's it, we've done our part, there's nothing more for us to do," Mourinho told journalists.
The Portuguese coach also reflected on the modern media landscape, noting the risks public figures face in digital spaces. "With this situation involving China, these are the dangers of today's world, where many times the best thing you can do is keep your mouth shut, because there's danger in so many things you say or comment on," he added.
How did Mourinho react to the Ballon d'Or outcome?
The remarks came at the end of a challenging week for Mbappe, who finished as runner-up behind Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane at Monday's Ballon d'Or ceremony. Mourinho commended Mbappe for his maturity and gracious response to missing out on the prestigious individual award.
"Kylian is very intelligent, very mature, with a very high level of self- esteem," Mourinho stated. "At the same time, he shows real class in the way he's interpreted the Ballon d'Or going to Harry. In him I've only seen and felt class and respect."
However, Mourinho expressed astonishment at midfielder Jude Bellingham finishing 11th in the voting, suggesting the England international deserved a much higher placement. At the same time, the veteran coach—who previously managed Kane during their time together at Tottenham Hotspur—expressed genuine delight for the English goalscorer.
"I had the privilege of working with Harry, he's a great player and a great professional and a great person," Mourinho concluded. "Inside the frustration that my player didn't win, well, I have to be honest and say I'm very happy for Harry, a player and a boy who deserves it."