The war of words between France superstar Kylian Mbappé and Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla has escalated, with the politician launching a fresh attack on the striker during a speech in Paraguay’s Senate.
The dispute stems from France’s tense 1-0 victory over Paraguay at the World Cup, after which Amarilla accused Mbappé of showing disrespect towards Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Speaking on the Senate floor, she alleged that the France captain refused to shake Gill’s hand following the final whistle and reacted aggressively towards the young goalkeeper.
Amarilla, a member of Paraguay’s Authentic Radical Liberal Party, condemned the alleged incident and insisted such behaviour did not reflect French values. She also claimed Paraguay had been subjected to racist insults in the aftermath of the defeat.
The controversy deepened after reports emerged that Mbappé had privately described Amarilla as a “despicable woman” and unworthy of public office, further fuelling tensions between the two.