At Elche’s Martínez Valero, a pre-match gesture intended to show support for Ceuta instead opened a wider debate. Kylian Mbappé has explained why he, Vinicius Junior and Konaté wore the solidarity shirt only partially before Real Madrid’s meeting with Elche.
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The three Real Madrid players faced criticism after appearing with the Ceuta support top only half worn while both teams took part in the pre-match display.
Mbappé said the initiative to wear the shirt came from the clubs and that the players were expected to take part. He stressed, however, that his decision was not a rejection of the people of Ceuta.
The French forward said he stands with Ceuta and with every victim, adding that he considers himself a human being before a footballer. At the same time, he wanted his gesture to recognise migrants who have died and those still living in difficult circumstances.
Mbappé acknowledged that the choice could be misunderstood, particularly by those who might believe he opposed Ceuta. He said that was “absolutely not” his position, insisting that he supports the city fully while wishing to show concern for everyone enduring suffering.
He added that he did not want to rank one tragedy above another and said it pains him to see suffering around the world. Mbappé closed by calling for positivity and peace, hoping the situation can be resolved quickly.
SEO Title: Kylian Mbappé explains Ceuta shirt gesture after Elche match
SEO Description: Kylian Mbappé says his partially worn Ceuta solidarity shirt before Real Madrid’s match at Elche was meant to recognise all victims, including migrants in hardship.
