France’s coach defends his star player following recent scrutiny over his performance
Didier Deschamps has defended Kylian Mbappe after the France forward faced criticism for his recent performances at Euro 2024.
Real Madrid’s latest signing has scored just once during France’s European campaign, with a penalty against Poland being his only goal of the tournament so far.
Mbappe sustained a broken nose during his side’s 1-0 victory over Austria and has been forced to play with a protective mask ever since.
His swift return to the pitch has attracted a torrent of criticism for his lack of success in front of goal, although Mbappe remains the only Frenchman to have scored in the tournament.
“Don’t you think he has already made enough history with what he has done so far?,” Deschamps said during the French television show Telefoot.
“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.
“Even if he’s not 100%, I know very well that for the opponent, knowing he’s playing makes them think and forces them to adapt,” he added.
Les Bleus have scored only three goals in total so far in Germany, with two being own goals and one from a penalty by Mbappe. They have become the first team in Euro history to reach the final four without scoring a single goal in open play, advancing to the semi-finals to face Spain on Tuesday.
Their qualification came after defeating Portugal 5-3 on penalties, knocking out the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo from the tournament.
Euro 2024 Semi-finals Schedule
July 9 – Spain vs France – Munich
July 10 – Netherlands vs England – Dortmund