KYLIAN MBAPPE says Emilano Martinez’s “futile” World Cup taunts have not bothered him.
The Argentinian keeper called for a minute’s silence for the French superstar when celebrating their final penalty shootout victory earlier this month.
He even posed with a doll carrying a picture of Mbappe’s face when parading the World Cup trophy in Buenos Aires.
When asked about the Aston Villa’s goalkeeper’s antics, Mbappe, 24, said: “Celebrations are not my problem.
“I do not waste energy on such futile things.
“What’s important for me is to give the best of myself for my club.”
READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
Martinez was also criticised for making a crude gesture with his trophy after being named the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Former French defender Adil Rami branded him the “most hated” man in France while politician Karl Olive called for Fifa to rescind his keeper award.
The 30-year-old reported back for Villa training today and boss Unai Emery vowed to speak to him about his actions.
The Villa gaffer said: “When you have big emotions, it is sometimes difficult to control them.
Most read in Football
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
“I will speak with him (Martinez) next week about some celebrations, but I respect that he is now with his national team.
“When he’s with us, under our responsibility, we can speak about it.”
But Mbappe – who scored a hattrick in the final – claims Martinez’s taunts have not caused any issues with PSG teammate Lionel Messi.
He added: “I talked with Messi after the match, I congratulated him.
“’It was a life’s goal for him, for me as well, but I failed, so you must always remain a good sportsman.
“Personally, I will never get over losing the final.
“But my club is not responsible for this failure of our team, so I’ve tried to return with the most positive energy possible.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
