Wilfried Mbappé, the father of footballing sensation Kylian Mbappé, is a key figure behind his son’s extraordinary rise to global stardom. Born on October 11, 1970, in Douala, Cameroon, Wilfried’s journey from amateur player to football coach and agent has been instrumental in shaping Kylian’s career. His dedication to his son’s development and his professional contributions to football make him a central figure in the Mbappé family’s legacy.
Background and Migration
Wilfried’s story begins in Cameroon, where he played football in his youth before deciding to move to France at the age of 20. Upon settling in Bondy, a suburb of Paris, he worked as a security guard and also pursued his passion for football by coaching at local youth clubs. Wilfried’s role at AS Bondy, where he coached young players, eventually led to him becoming Kylian’s mentor on the field. His experience as a player and a coach allowed him to instill discipline, skills, and a deep understanding of the game in his son.
Role in Kylian’s Development
Wilfried’s influence on Kylian was crucial from the beginning. As Kylian’s first coach at AS Bondy, he helped hone his skills from a very young age, ensuring that his son developed technically, mentally, and emotionally. Wilfried was not just a coach; he was a guiding figure, imparting the values of hard work, perseverance, and a strong sense of professionalism. His guidance helped Kylian grow from a promising youth talent into one of the world’s most exciting footballers.
This father-son bond has remained strong throughout Kylian’s rise to fame. Wilfried has remained closely involved in his son’s career, often seen supporting him at matches and events. He has also served as Kylian’s agent, helping to manage his professional deals and brand. His involvement has ensured that Kylian’s career is not just about talent but also about managing opportunities for long-term success.
Family Life and Heritage
Wilfried is married to Fayza Lamari, a former handball player of Algerian Kabyle origin, and they have two sons, Kylian and Ethan. Ethan, following in his brother’s footsteps, is also pursuing a career in football. The family maintains strong ties to their African roots, which have played a significant role in shaping Kylian’s identity. In 2023, Kylian visited Cameroon, his father’s birthplace, to connect with his heritage, further emphasising the importance of family and culture in the Mbappé household.
Professional Contributions
Beyond his role as a father and coach, Wilfried Mbappé has made significant contributions to football as an agent and mentor. His deep understanding of the sport and his background as a coach have enabled him to guide Kylian through the complexities of professional football. He has also worked with other young players, offering advice and mentorship, ensuring his impact goes beyond just his son.
Recent Developments
The Mbappé family’s influence continues to grow, particularly following Kylian’s move to Real Madrid in 2024. This transfer marked a significant professional milestone for Kylian and opened up new business opportunities for the family. With the establishment of their company, Interconnected Ventures, they now manage various aspects of Kylian’s career and public image, further cementing the family’s role in his professional success.
Conclusion
Wilfried Mbappé influence on Kylian’s career cannot be overstated. His guidance as a coach and father has shaped Kylian into the football icon he is today. Beyond football, Wilfried’s role in managing his son’s career and ensuring his success off the pitch reflects his deep commitment to Kylian’s overall growth. As Kylian continues to break records and achieve new heights, Wilfried’s steadfast support and leadership will undoubtedly remain crucial to his success story.
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