Deschamps Reflects on France's Victory Over Italy
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of the French national football team, expressed pride in his team's performance following their 2-0 victory against Italy in the Nations League. This match marked a significant moment for the French squad, especially after a previous 0-0 draw against Israel. Deschamps noted that despite the challenges faced, including making seven changes to the starting lineup, the team demonstrated effective positioning and collective mastery on the field. He emphasized that winning against a strong Italian team is always a source of pride and helps regain the top position in their group.
Deschamps also addressed the ongoing situation of star player Kylian Mbappé, who was not selected for the match despite his desire to participate. He acknowledged the difficulties Mbappé is experiencing at his club, Real Madrid, and expressed confidence that the player would soon regain his form. Deschamps stated, "It’s complicated for Kylian, and I’m convinced that he will regain full possession of his abilities." He further highlighted the importance of the team's collective effort, particularly in set-piece situations, which contributed to their victory.
Kylian Mbappé's Support for Teammates
Despite not being part of the squad, Kylian Mbappé showed his support for the French team by sharing an encouraging message on Instagram during the match against Italy. He posted "Allez les Bleus!" as he watched the game from home, reflecting his commitment to the team even amid personal challenges. Deschamps remarked on Mbappé's current struggles, indicating that while the player is in a complicated situation, it does not diminish his past contributions to the team. The coach noted the psychological aspects of performance, suggesting that mental state plays a crucial role in athletic success.
As the French team looks ahead, Deschamps plans to analyze the year 2024 and the lessons learned from recent matches, aiming to build a stronger squad for future competitions.