Kylian Mbappé has issued an official statement to apologize for the comments that led to the Chinese government's decision not to broadcast Real Madrid matches on state television. The French forward, who recently lost the Ballon d'Or, used his official social media profiles to publish a message in French, Chinese and English addressed to the Chinese people. In the text, Mbappé explained that his reaction to an edited image of himself during an interview was misinterpreted and that, according to him, he had offended many Chinese citizens. "I apologize to anyone who my words may have offended. It was not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history," the player wrote.
The controversy arose after Mbappé made humorous comments about the dictator Mao Zedong. The reaction of the Chinese government was immediate: the broadcast of any content related to the footballer on state television was prohibited. To date, the decision remains in force and no additional response has been recorded from the Chinese authorities.
Mbappé's statement seeks to clarify his position and restore mutual respect between the footballer and the Chinese public. Although the forward has apologized, the state broadcaster's measure has not been revoked, indicating that the situation is still ongoing. Real Madrid and the player's fans will have to wait to see if the suspension is maintained or if an agreement is reached that allows the broadcast of the matches in the future.