Kylian Mbappe says he has mixed feelings about online comparisons between him and dictators, admitting it is difficult to be associated with people responsible for murder and mass suffering.
The Real Madrid forward was speaking after being depicted on social media in military uniform, sitting on a throne and alongside Soviet leader Josef Stalin. The images have circulated over the past year as supporters have criticised what they see as arrogance and selfishness in his behaviour for both club and country.
Mbappe said he understood that some of the comparisons were intended as jokes, but questioned the judgement behind making them.
“It is in part funny because you get the sense that, for some people, it's all in good fun,” he said.
“But there is also the part that is not so funny, because we know the damage this genre of people have caused throughout history.
“To be compared to people who murder others, or who have caused misery for millions and millions of people ... I don't think I've ever done anything like that in my life. So there's a mix of things.
“On the one hand, I know it's done in a lighthearted way and it isn't meant to be taken too far, but it perhaps shows a lack of political and human awareness in people.”
Mbappe has continued to make a significant impact on the pitch despite Real Madrid’s difficult recent spell. His goal in Tuesday’s 2-1 victory over Inter Milan moved him into joint-fifth place in the all-time Champions League and European Cup scoring rankings.
The France World Cup winner joined the Spanish club shortly after their latest Champions League triumph, but Real have not won silverware for two years.
Mbappe was also included this week on the 30-player shortlist for the Ballon d’Or.
Real Madrid are fourth in La Liga after four matches. They have won three games and lost one, and will face Rayo Vallecano tonight as Mbappe looks to help maintain their momentum.