In the glittering world of modern football, few narratives spark rage or intrigue as much as the idea that Mbappé hates Messi and Neymar. The very notion feels dramatic, almost soap-opera material — but beneath the headlines, is there any truth? In this article, VulcanKick will take you through the tangled web of personalities, statements, history, and rivalry to try to answer why Mbappé hate Messi and Neymar — or at least, why many believe he does.
The iconic trio at PSG: promise and pitfalls
When Lionel Messi arrived at Paris Saint-Germain in August 2021, a new era was supposed to begin. He joined a squad already hosting Neymar and Mbappé, forming arguably one of the most star-studded attacking trios in history. But what looked like a dream lineup on pa, Mbappé, and Messi each carry enormous egos and legacies. Their clash of styles, ambitions, and roles caused tension — especially in high-stakes matches like the Champions League, where PSG repeatedly fell short. A key narrative emerged: was Mbappé resentful of sharing the spotlight with Messi or Neymar? Was there jealousy? Did rivalry win over camaraderie?
Neymar’s revelation: jealousy and “change in behavior”
The most overt claim comes. In a high-profile podcast interview, he said that Mbappé became “a little jealous” when Messi arrived at PSG. He described:
- A shift in behavior and attitude in Mbappé after Messi’s arrival.
- That Mbappé “didn’t want to split me with anyone” — suggesting he resisted the idea of Neymar and Messi bonding closely.
- That although he and Mbappé had “a little fight,” they once had strong early years of companionship and mutual support.
Neymar framed these dynamics as rooted in ego and the difficulty of integrating three superstars under one roof — particularly when each player expects the ball, the attention, the influence. (These claims have been widely reported in recent months.)
This is the strongest public assertion tying Mbappé’s alleged resentment toward both Messi and Neymar.
Mbappé’s response: dignified silence and focus
In the face of Neymar’s accusations, Mbappé has largely responded with calm restraint. He said he had “nothing to say” about the rumors and that he remains focused on his work at Real Madrid (where he moved) and on his career forward. He stressed respect for Neymar, and hinted at wanting to “remember the good things.”
His silence is telling: it doesn’t confirm or deny the claims directly, but it reflects a posture of maturity and perhaps a desire to avoid being dragged into sensational drama.
Underlying motivations: what might drive tension
Beyond public statements, several factors help explain why many believe Mbappé hate Messi and Neymar — or at least harbor frustration toward them.
1. Competition for status, influence, and legacy
All three are elite, headline-making players, each used to being focal points. Mbappé, especially, has long been viewed (by club and media) as the rising star — a future face of world football. Introducing Messi, an all-time legend, can challenge that dynamic. It’s natural that Mbappé might feel his status threatened or diminished.
Meanwhile, Neymar and Messi share many connections that might intensify a feeling of exclusion or rivalry.
2. Tactical and positional conflicts
On the pitch, three ace attackers must redistribute tasks, movements, touches. Mbappé often thrives when given freedom on the left or cutting inside, while Neymar and Messi also demand space and influence. Over the long run, as Messi’s presence demanded greater attention and adjustment, Mbappé may have chafed against tactical constraints.
Moreover, in matches where egos clash, expectations about who tracks back, defends, presses, or sacrifices for the team can become flashpoints.
3. Club expectations and external pressure
PSG’s project was ambitious: to finally win the Champions League. The Parisian media, fans, and management demanded results. When results failed, blame factions often emerged. The trio was under constant scrutiny, making internal friction more visible. Pressure amplifies tension.
Also, PSG’s recruitment — stacking superstars — creates a scenario where power dynamics are always in flux. Who gets priority? Who is the protected star? Who must adapt?
4. Human nature: ego, insecurity, and change
Even among the greatest players, insecurity is real. Mbappé is arguably younger than Messi and Neymar; he has something to prove. As the balance shifts, someone feels pushed into the shadows. Jealousy, resentment, or cold tension aren’t unthinkable in that human terrain.
In many superstar teams across sports, internal clashing is typical. It’s not proof of animosity, but evidence that elite talent often carries contradictions.
Is the “hate” narrative accurate or exaggerated?
The statement why Mbappé hate Messi and Neymar is more provocative than precise. Based on available evidence:
- There is no confirmed declaration of hatred from Mbappé toward Messi or Neymar.
- Neymar’s testimony of jealousy is credible but one-sided.
- Mbappé’s responses indicate a desire to move forward, not reignite conflict.
- Much of the tension can be explained through ambition, shifting roles, media narratives, and normal friction among high-caliber stars.
So the truth likely lies somewhere in between: Mbappé may have felt frustration or rivalry toward Messi and Neymar, especially during their PSG years, but “hate” is too strong a label absent explicit confirmation.
After PSG: distancing, new chapters
Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid (and Messi’s departure from PSG to Inter Miami) has naturally reduced the proximity that fueled these narratives. With the trio no longer teammates, there’s less room for immediate friction or daily comparisons. Time and distance often cool heated dynamics.
Moreover, Mbappé’s focus on his own legacy — domestic dominance, Champions League aspirations, national team success — shifts his energy outward rather than inward toward interpersonal drama.
Conclusion
Let’s be clear: why Mbappé hate Messi and Neymar is neither neatly answered nor wholly verifiable. The strongest narrative comes, alleging that Mbappé grew jealous after Messi’s arrival, triggering behavioral shifts and tension. Mbappé’s calm responses neither confirm nor fully deny this.
It is more plausible that Mbappé’s feelings toward Messi and Neymar included a mix of rivalry, pride, and adjustment than pure “hate.” The clash of three footballing titans in one club was always going to test relationships.
If you’re curious about how other star trios have functioned, or want deeper dive into Mbappé’s mindset, let me know. VulcanKick is ready to explore further — and don’t forget to keep reading for more hot takes and deep dives.
