Mbappé-Orelsan Feud Escalates as Rapper Opts for Reflection Over Retaliation
Caen, France – November 9, 2025 – Following a pointed response from Kylian Mbappé regarding lyrics in Orelsan’s new album, the French rapper has indicated he intends to “think rather than respond directly” to the football star’s criticisms.The exchange stems from a line in Orelsan’s latest release referencing Mbappé’s investment in his hometown club, SM Caen, and its recent struggles.
The dispute ignited after Mbappé publicly addressed Orelsan’s lyrics on X (formerly Twitter), alleging the rapper had “begged us to come in with 1% without paying because he doesn’t have any money but to have the good image of the little guy from Normandy.” This followed a period of scrutiny surrounding Caen’s performance since Mbappé’s family acquired a stake in the club, with some attributing the team’s difficulties to the ownership.The clash has drawn attention beyond sports and music circles, highlighting the intersection of celebrity, business, and regional pride in France.
Orelsan expressed his desire for a “controlled response” during a book signing at Fnac in Caen on Saturday, November 8, according to reports from Ouest-France. The rapper’s new album, “The Flight Forward,” released this Friday, explores personal themes and builds upon the narrative established in his film “Yoroï.”
The controversy has also attracted commentary from fellow rapper Booba, who seemingly sided with Orelsan, posting on X that “Orelsan is not broke” and affirming the original punchline’s effectiveness. Orelsan’s previous album, “Civilization,” was the best-selling album in France for both 2021 and 2022, cementing his position as a leading figure in French music. the situation remains fluid, with the potential for further public statements from either party.
