France captain Kylian Mbappé has said he is back in a mental state where he “hates failure” after making his first return to the national team since their failed campaign at Euro 2024.

Despite reaching the semi-finals of the tournament in Germany, Mbappé described his and his team’s campaign as a “failure” after their elimination against Spain.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the 25-year-old said he had changed his mentality as a result of the experience and the completion of his long-term free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid this summer.

“I’m in a place where I always wanted to be. Last year there was a bit of distance,” he said.

“My whole career I’ve hated losing. Last year I just enjoyed winning — now I’m back in that mindset of hating to fail.”

Mbappé also spoke highly of his time in the Spanish capital so far.

“I’m very happy to be in Madrid, things are going very well, we’ve already won a trophy,” he said, referring to the LaLiga champions’ victory in the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta.

“As for the performances, it’s getting better and better, I’ve scored goals. I always arrive (in the French camp) with the same energy — I want to help the French team as much as possible.”

Mbappé was speaking ahead of the UEFA Nations League match between France and Italy on Friday at the Parc des Princes, PSG’s home stadium.

“What kind of reception (will I get)?” he said when asked about playing in the stadium. “I don’t expect much, I don’t care. The most important thing is to win.”