By posting the photo of his sumptuous victorious chisel against Dortmund, Kylian Mbappé may not think of a debate on artificial intelligence. And yet, this shot shared by the Real Madrid star on Instagram intrigues as much as it amuses. In the background, the stands of the stadium appear to fall for it … while they were however sparse during this quarter-final of the Club World Cup. A detail that has not escaped Internet users.
Because yes, to look more closely, the image seems to have been “embellished”. Floral faces, repeated silhouettes, frozen postures … All signs of an artificial filling are there. Is it a montage carried out by the player's team, an automatic error of an AI, or a subtle desire to support the event? Anyway, this publication offered Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, an incomplete unexpected advertising.
The Swiss leader, who makes this new formula of the Club World Cup his major personal project, has faced for months skepticism and criticism. Extreme climatic conditions in the United States, calendar stifling in summer, disinterest of the local public … The competition is struggling to take off. But at least, on Instagram, thanks to Mbappé, the stands seem full. And that is always good to take.
Full stands, or almost: Mbappé to the aid of the World Cup clubs
Behind the wink, this gesture raises another reality: if FIFA can count on clubs to play the game, it can also sometimes count on stars to treat the image. Volunteer or not, Mbappé offered a flattering showcase to a competition that needed it. And in the image battle, a story is sometimes more than a press release.
So, in exchange for this small service rendered, could Infantino offer him a symbolic trophy? If the title of top scorer seems to spin towards Gonzalo Garcia, that of the most beautiful goal – or of the most beautiful Post Instagram – may well reward number 9 of Real. Failing to fill the stages, Mbappé fills the networks.
