Former Senegal international El Hadji Diouf revealed a surprising conversation with Wilfried Mbappé, Kylian Mbappé’s father, prior to the 2002 World Cup. Following the tournament draw, Wilfried Mbappé reportedly contacted Diouf, expressing concern about his son and urging Senegal to avoid treating him as they had Zinédine Zidane. Zidane was injured and missed the opening match between Senegal and France, which Senegal famously won 1-0. Diouf responded jokingly that Senegal would treat Kylian Mbappé like they had Zidane – by preventing him from playing. Diouf emphasized the exchange was lighthearted and expressed his desire to see all top players compete in major tournaments, acknowledging a France team with Zidane would have presented a greater challenge. He stated he enjoyed beating France without Zidane but would have preferred to play against a fully-fit French squad.