France manager Didier Deschamps has come to the defense of the team’s captain and star player Kylian Mbappe amid mounting criticism for his poor performance in front of goal in the ongoing 2024 European Championship.
Mbappe, widely recognized as the best young player in the world, has struggled for form in the Euros. The 25-year-old has failed to find the back of the net from open play and has scored just one goal, via a penalty in France’s final group game against Poland.
The performance of Kylian Mbappe, in the 2024 European Championship has sparked heated discussions among fans and analysts. There were hopes for the Paris Saint Germain striker renowned for his speed, skill and scoring prowess. However the reality has been quite different. Mbappe has faced difficulties in translating his club success to the arena drawing scrutiny.
Despite encountering challenges it's crucial to acknowledge Mbappes impact on football. At an age of 19 he played a crucial role in Frances victory at the 2018 World Cup netting four goals during the tournament including one in the final, against Croatia. His early accomplishments have set a standard making his current form a topic of discussion.
Deschamps was critical of those speaking against Mbappe, reminding his critics of what he has already achieved in the sport. “Don’t you think he has already made enough history with what he has done so far? He wants to make even more history. We did everything we could with him, with the medical staff, to get him to be here. During the preparation, he had a little back problem, too, but Kylian is here,” Deschamps said during an appearance on French television show Telefoot.
Deschamps’ defense of Mbappe is rooted in a deep understanding of the pressures faced by top athletes. The manager’s support is crucial for maintaining the morale of his star player, especially when the team is underperforming. Deschamps’ comments reflect his confidence in Mbappe’s ability to bounce back and make a significant impact as the tournament progresses.
Didier Deschamps on Kylian Mbappé 🇫🇷
— KMZ (@KM10Zone) July 7, 2024
« Excuse me, don’t you think he has already made history? With what he has done so far? He wants to make even more history.
We did everything we could with him, with the medical staff, to get him here. During the preparation, he had a little… pic.twitter.com/DClv6Z4DAo
It’s worth noting that the striker has been forced to play a majority of the tournament while wearing a mask after he broke his nose during a collision with Austria’s Kevin Danso while going for the ball late in the Group D game.
There were fears that Mbappe would need surgery, but to the relief of the team, the injury was not treated as serious. Deschamps scoffed at suggestions that he would bench the striker in their semifinal encounter against Spain. “Even if he is not 100 percent, I know very well that for the opponent, knowing he is playing makes them think and forces them to adapt,” he added.
Playing with an injury is always a challenging situation for any athlete. For Mbappe, the mask is a constant reminder of the physical toll the sport can take. Despite this, his presence on the field is invaluable for France, as it forces opponents to strategize differently and often focus on neutralizing his threat, which can create opportunities for other players.
France has struggled for fluency despite having some of the most talented players in the world, scoring a meager three goals from open play in the tournament so far. They will look to get back to their best form when they face Spain in the semifinals at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, July 10 (Philippine Standard Time).
The lack of goals from open play highlights a tactical issue within the French squad. While they possess world-class talent, the cohesion and fluidity expected of such a team have been lacking. This has led to reliance on set-pieces and moments of individual brilliance rather than sustained attacking play. The challenge for Deschamps is to find a balance that maximizes the strengths of players like Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and Karim Benzema.
Beyond physical injuries and tactical adjustments, the psychological pressure on Mbappe is immense. Being labeled as one of the best young players in the world brings with it a level of expectation that can be daunting. The criticism he faces is not just about his current form but also the weight of his past successes and the anticipation of future triumphs.
Didier Deschamps’ public defense of Mbappe serves as a reminder of the human side of sports. Athletes, no matter how talented, are not immune to pressure and criticism. Support from management and teammates is crucial in helping them navigate these challenges.
As France prepares for their semifinal clash against Spain, the focus will be on overcoming their current form and finding a way to unleash the full potential of their squad. For Mbappe, this match is an opportunity to silence his critics and demonstrate why he is considered one of the best in the world.
The team’s success hinges not just on individual performances but on collective effort and strategic brilliance. Deschamps’ role in galvanizing his squad and getting the best out of his players, particularly Mbappe, will be pivotal.
Didier Deschamps’ defense of Kylian Mbappe amid the star’s struggles in the 2024 European Championship highlights the complexities of professional sports. Mbappe’s current form, influenced by injury and immense pressure, has drawn criticism, but it is crucial to remember his past achievements and potential for future success. As France aims to reclaim their attacking prowess in the upcoming semifinal against Spain, the support and belief from their manager and teammates will be essential in overcoming challenges and striving for victory.
Stay updated with all the latest sports news and insights by visiting OKBET, Asia’s most trusted and the best football betting site.
Join us today on OKBET to follow the thrilling journey of Euro 2024 and beyond.
