Mbappé – Deschamps: tensions that do not disappear

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By: Nicolas Gerbault

Relations between a coach and his captain are rarely a long, quiet river. The history of football is filled with examples, and the French team is no exception. Kylian Mbappé, who finds the Blues after a period marked by controversial absences and decisions, wanted to clarify his relationship with Didier Deschamps. If the Real Madrid striker claims that everything is fine between them, his words still suggest latent tensions.

Mbappé admits disagreements with Deschamps

Questioned by Le Parisien, the captain of the Blues said that there was “No break” with his coach. But he recognizes that there are disputes: “These are not secrets, but these are disagreements that people don't need to know.” A declaration that intrigues. If all goes so well between the two men, why insist on these disagreements? Mbappé continues by saying that he always has respect for Deschamps, and that their common history cannot be called into question for “Two, three disagreements”.

Words that show that the situation has been more tense than it means. In recent months, several episodes have aroused the question: his absence of the rally in October after having asked for rest in September, his voluntary eviction in November by Deschamps … so many decisions that have been able to leave traces.

Mbappé surprises everyone with their statements.

A status in the France team still disputed?

The role of captain of Mbappé was another subject of debate. He himself is surprised by the controversy : “I am the only one who we ask if it is made for that.”He recognizes that this armband is a responsibility but that it continues to assume it with pride. However, in the locker room, the hierarchy is not as clear as it was in the past with leaders like Hugo Lloris or Raphaël Varane.

Mbappé also seems always marked by certain criticisms of the public : “We had this impression, with Antoine (Griezmann), that everything we had done for the selection had been put in the trash.” His return with the Blues will therefore be closely scrutinized, in particular to see how he will manage this increased pressure.

High voltage return

While the Blues are preparing to face Croatia during a double confrontation in the League of Nations, all the cameras will be robbed on Mbappé and Deschamps. The hug between the two men will be analyzed from every angle. The captain of the Blues may ensure that “Nothing has changed”, The last months have left scars. And if the situation were to degenerate again, there is no doubt that this debate would quickly resurface.