As France prepares to face Spain in Dallas with a World Cup final berth at stake, the spotlight has shifted from the pitch to the personal lives of the stars. Spanish actress and model Ester Exposito has emerged as the latest name linked to French football phenom Kylian Mbappe, sparking curiosity across social media and sports columns alike.

Career Highlights

Exposito first captured international attention in 2018 when she portrayed the scheming student Carla Rosón Caleruega in Netflix’s thriller Elite. The role catapulted her into the global teen‑drama arena and earned her a dedicated fan base. She later expanded her acting repertoire with a 2020 thriller Someone Has to Die, playing Cayetana Aldama, and the 2024 action‑adventure heist film Bandido on Apple TV, where she embodied the character Lili. Critics have praised her versatility, noting a seamless transition between television and cinema.

Modeling & Fashion Influence

Beyond the screen, Ester has built a notable modeling career, collaborating with luxury houses such as YSL Beauty and Dolce & Gabbana. In 2025 she was appointed global ambassador for the Barcelona‑based label Desigual, leading high‑visibility campaigns across Europe and Latin America. Her fashion credentials add a layer of celebrity appeal that aligns well with Mbappe’s own brand partnerships.

Origins of the Romance Rumours

The first whispers of a possible romance surfaced during Paris Fashion Week in March 2024, when paparazzi captured the pair stepping into the same vehicle. A second encounter in April, followed by a February snapshot allegedly showing the duo sharing a kiss on the rooftop of the Pullman Madrid Hotel, intensified speculation. In late 2024, the two were spotted together at a Travis Scott concert in Madrid, though Exposito later clarified that the relationship with Mbappe’s teammate Vinícius Júnior was purely platonic.

Current Status and Future Implications

Neither Exposito nor Mbappe has publicly confirmed the relationship, yet subtle social‑media nods suggest mutual affection. If the rumours prove true, the partnership could amplify both stars’ marketability—Mbappe’s brand already enjoys a global footprint, while Exposito’s fashion and acting credentials could open new endorsement avenues. As the semi‑final unfolds, fans will be watching not only the on‑field tactics but also whether the couple appears on the sidelines.

Regardless of the outcome, the narrative underscores a growing intersection between elite sport and high‑fashion, illustrating how personal branding now extends far beyond the stadium.