After a generally disappointing Euro 2024 – more in terms of play than results – Didier Deschamps’ troops are back for this September international break. On the program, two Nations League matches, against Italy this Friday, then against Belgium on Monday. Two duels during which several players are eagerly awaited: Kylian Mbappé, who must recover after a failed Euro, debutant Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola, who will want to confirm his excellent start to the season.
It is also an opportunity to consolidate this French group which will probably be the one that will play in the next World Cup, in a little less than two years. Didier Deschamps therefore already needs certainties, but also leaders, in a group that lacks them. During the Euro, one player gained ground according to The Team : Mike Maignan, who has become a key player in the locker room.
A true leader
The daily explains that the Milanese goalkeeper no longer hesitates to speak up and rant in the locker room. The newspaper describes a player who doesn’t mince his words and doesn’t hesitate to push his teammates around. During half-time of the match against Poland, for example, he ranted, criticizing his teammates for a lack of aggression. A telling-off that no one flinched at, and Didier Deschamps even supported his goalkeeper’s comments, being even happy to see him assume a new leadership role.
All this, while remaining particularly appreciated by the locker room and other executives like Kylian Mbappé, Jules Koundé and Aurélien Tchouameni. He also sets an example by being particularly hard-working and serious during training sessions, and expects the same from his teammates. The newspaper also indicates that he has taken Lucas Chevalier under his wing, and that he has followed him since his debut at his former club, LOSC. A new strong man in Deschamps’ group then!
