Jose Mourinho Backs Kylian Mbappe Amid Mao Zedong Row, Advises Silence

BBC Sport · 2026-10-31
Jose Mourinho Backs Kylian Mbappe Amid Mao Zedong Row, Advises Silence

Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe's recent remarks about Mao Zedong, offering a blunt piece of advice: "The best thing is to keep your mouth shut." Mourinho's comments come after Mbappe faced backlash for his statement, which sparked heated debate across social media and international news outlets. While the exact context of Mbappe's original comment remains a point of contention, Mourinho made it clear he stands by the French superstar, emphasizing that players often find themselves in difficult positions when discussing historical or political figures. The Portuguese manager, known for his own history of outspoken remarks, suggested that silence is sometimes the wisest course of action in such situations. The incident highlights the growing scrutiny facing high-profile athletes who engage with sensitive topics, even inadvertently. As Mbappe continues to focus on his performances for Real Madrid, Mourinho's public support may help deflect some of the pressure, but the episode underscores the fine line athletes must walk in the age of instant global communication. For now, the message from the Bernabeu is clear: play football, avoid politics, and let the controversy fade.