France head coach Didier Deschamps has defended Kylian Mbappe after his poor display against Portugal in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, Soccernet.football reports.
Portugal were eliminated via penalty shootout but Mbappe, the France captain, was substituted in the 105th minute after a lackluster performance on Friday.
Facing his childhood idol Cristiano Ronaldo, Mbappe was under immense pressure. Despite a slow start to the tournament, including a broken nose against Austria, he was expected to solve France’s attacking issues.
However, he struggled in the goalless draw against Portugal, and his teammates secured victory on penalties without him.
Deschamps made the bold decision to replace Mbappe with Bradley Barcola before the penalty shootout, citing his player’s fatigue.
“Even before, things were starting to drag a little. Kylian is always very honest with me and with the group. From the moment he no longer has the ability to accelerate, we cannot afford to lose him [for the future]. With everything he has had, his back problem, plus the trauma to his nose, he is hanging on… He knows very well that he is not in the best of shape,” Deschamps explained as per France TV.
Deschamps acknowledged Mbappe’s poor form, with no resentment from the star player.
Mbappe insists he should have been substituted earlier as team glory was more important that individual accolade.
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“At the end of regulation time, we had already spoken with the coach. We had decided to try but at half-time [in extra time], I told him that I didn’t feel it anymore, that I was too tired,” said Mbappe.
“I think you have to get over that. When you’re captain, you have to [above all] always stay involved and be there for your teammates. I always said before competitions that no matter what happens, the important thing is that we win. People thought it was a joke, but we’re there. I only scored one goal but we’re in the semi-finals and I’m still very happy,” he added.
Despite his efforts, Mbappe’s performance raised concerns as he failed to make a significant impact.
Deschamps defended both Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann, acknowledging their struggle for form.
“You are always harsh,” Deschamps said. “For different reasons, Kylian and Antoine are not at the top of what they are capable of doing. Both are supposed to improve this efficiency that we do not have, but they are hanging on.”
Mbappe admitted he hadn’t fully regained his form.
“I’ve never been the player who makes excuses, but I think that to be 100% I need good physical preparation,” he said. Reflecting on his earlier days with the national team, he mentioned the absence of players like Paul Pogba, hinting at the changes in the team dynamics.
Despite the challenges, Mbappe has the chance to redeem himself in the semi-finals against Spain. Facing the country where he will continue his career at Real Madrid, this match presents the perfect opportunity for him to bounce back.
