The French national team will be confronted with Spain in the semi -final of the UEFA Nations League.
France National Team Coach Didier Deschamps has praised the leadership of Kylian Mbappé in a statement after the match prior to their recent quarter-final collision of the UEFA Nations League with Croatia. Although Mbappé did not score in the 2-0 victory of France (5-4 on penalties), the French coach praised his influence both on and next to the field.
“Kylian has been a formidable leader since the beginning of the week, making a number of very effective interventions on and next to the field, show a lot of enthusiasm and determination. He played an important role in the construction of this competition,” said Deschamps.
Although the Real Madrid striker stands for a seven-match scoreless series for the national team, the influence of Mbappé on the team remains clear. His dedication and positive attitude have been emphasized by his coach, who is convinced that the striker will remain an important player in the Les Bleus system.
Doubts about his dedication to the national team
The French attacker had been the subject of criticism in recent weeks because of his absence of the national team and his journey to Istanbul in the middle of his club's training camp. These situations aroused doubts about his dedication to the national team and his state of mind and feeding a debate around his character. In the match against Croatia, however, Mbappé succeeded in expeling much of that uncertainty with a performance that, although no goals, showed his leadership and dedication.
His attitude during the training camp was the key to changing public perception. He seemed more involved with the group, involved in tactical preparation and embraced his role as a captain, who took over from Varane and Hugo Lloris. In the dressing room he took the initiative at important moments, and on the field he was the most important offensive force, creating danger and his teammates motivated. This has cleared the way for a reconciliation with the fans and the media.
After they have already qualified against Croatia, the French will be confronted with Spain in the semi -final of the UEFA Nations League on 5 June. The winner of this match plays the winner of the Portugal-Germany Tie in the final on 8 June.
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