'He is probably known to more people in India than in France' - PM Narendra Modi praises PSG superstar during his two-day visit to France 

Kylian Mbappe & PM Narendra Modi (Source: Twitter)

Regarded as one of the finest footballers of the modern era, Kylian Mbappé has won fans around the world for his exceptional skills. He is only 24 years old but has already established his name in the list of greats. His astonishing records at both French League and the international level have earned him many admirers in India as well. The French superstar's growing popularity in India was also highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian PM is currently in France for a two-day visit as he has been invited by French President Emmanuel Macron to attend the Bastille Day celebrations on July 14. Addressing the Indian community in Paris on 13 July, he reflected on his profound relationship with France. PM Modi spoke about several topics, including the increasing participation of international players in Indian sports.

But the highlight of his impassioned speech was a reference to French national football team captain Mbappe. The phenomenal fan base of the Paris Saint-Germain attacker in India was well known to Modi, who described Mbappe as a 'superhit' in his nation. "French football player Kylian Mbappe is superhit among the youth in India. Mbappe is probably known to more people in India than in France," he said.

Watch the video of PM Modi's speech:

#WATCH | French football player Kylian Mbappe is superhit among the youth in India. Mbappe is probably known to more people in India than in France, said PM Modi, in Paris pic.twitter.com/fydn9tQ86V

— ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2023

Known for his dribbling abilities, exceptional speed, and finishing, Mbappe is an inspiration for young footballers. His incredible talent was on full display at the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, where he almost won the game singlehandedly for his team with a sensational hat-trick against the champions Argentina. It was his second World Cup final, having won at the age of 19 in 2018 following a hammering of Croatia in the summit clash.

PM Modi spoke about his longstanding relations with France 

During his captivating speech to the Indian community at La Seine Musicale, Modi pointed out his longstanding relations with the European nation. He discussed about the Alliance Française in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, roughly 40 years ago, and mentioned that he was the first member of the cultural centre in India.

"The national anthem of France says Let's March, Let's March and in our country also the mantra which has been inspiring us since Vedic times is Charaiveti, Charaiveti. We are going to see the same sentiment in the National Day Parade tomorrow as well," PM Modi added.