World Cup 2026: Zlatan Ibrahimovic Picks Player with Ego Among Mbappe, Dembele, Olise

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says Kylian Mbappe has the ego of a goalscorer, while Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise are selfless players whose combination strengthens France’s attacking threat.

Former Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimovic has described Kylian Mbappe as the only France forward among Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise who possesses the ego of a natural goalscorer.

Ibrahimovic made the remarks while analysing France’s impressive 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.

Speaking on Fox Sports after the match, the former AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United striker praised the balance in Didier Deschamps’ attacking unit, insisting that the different personalities within the frontline have contributed significantly to France’s success at the tournament.

According to Ibrahimovic, Mbappe’s desire to score goals gives him the mentality expected of a leading striker, while Dembele and Olise are more team-oriented in their approach.

“When you have strikers like Olise, who doesn’t have an ego, wants to score goals is perfect for them and Dembele, who also doesn’t have an ego, but Mbappe does have an ego, he wants to score,” Ibrahimovic said.

“But one of them doesn’t have ego, the combination is perfect.”

Mbappe once again proved decisive for France during the victory over Sweden, scoring twice to help Les Bleus secure qualification for the Round of 16.

The Real Madrid forward has now taken his tally to six goals at the ongoing World Cup, placing him among the leading contenders for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.

Dembele has also enjoyed an impressive campaign, contributing four goals as France continue their pursuit of a third World Cup title.

Although Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise is yet to open his scoring account in the competition, he has become one of the tournament’s standout creators, registering five assists and playing a key role in France’s attacking play.

France’s convincing victory over Sweden booked a Round of 16 meeting with Paraguay as Didier Deschamps’ side continue their quest for World Cup glory.

With Mbappe, Dembele and Olise all producing influential performances, France remain one of the favourites to lift the trophy, boasting one of the most dangerous attacking trios still left in the competition.