Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé has spoken out after facing backlash for partially covering a T-shirt expressing support for Ceuta, the Spanish enclave experiencing a migration crisis.
Mbappé: I Stand with Ceuta, But I Also Stand with Every Suffering Migrant
The forward, along with teammates Vinícius Júnior and Ibrahima Konaté, rolled up the shirts ahead of Real Madrid’s 3-2 LaLiga victory at Elche on Tuesday, drawing criticism from Spanish media and social media users.
The shirts, which read “We’re all from Ceuta” and were organized by a local business group, were worn by players from both teams following an agreement between the clubs and LaLiga.
However, Mbappé and his teammates obscured the message by folding the shirts to their chests.
Speaking to Diario AS on Wednesday, Mbappé explained his position.
“I stand in full solidarity with Ceuta and all the victims, because before being a player, I’m a human being,” he said.
“But I also wanted to acknowledge all the migrants who’ve lost their lives and those facing harsh conditions.”
The 25-year-old emphasized that he did not intend to disrespect Ceuta’s residents.
“I have nothing against them, and I fully support them,” he stated.
“However, I also wanted to acknowledge everyone who is suffering. I don’t want to prioritize one form of suffering over another.”
Tensions in Ceuta escalated in July when tens of thousands crossed the border from Morocco, triggering a humanitarian crisis and fierce debate over immigration.
Mbappé, whose mother is of Algerian descent and father emigrated from Cameroon, added, “I aim to send a message of positivity and peace, and I hope this is resolved quickly.”
The incident follows similar controversy involving Real Betis forward Abde Ezzalzouli, who faced criticism from Moroccan fans after wearing a Ceuta support shirt before his team’s match against Villarreal.
Abde, who plays for Morocco, refused to apologize, stating the shirt carried no political intent.
