French manager Didier Deschamps decided to usher in a new era after he named Kylian Mbappé captain. While the decision was relatively easy for some, it wasn’t for Deschamps.
In an interview with Le Parisien, the Frenchman noted some behind-the-scenes details and had to convey the choice to veteran Antoine Griezmann. With Hugo Lloris and Raphaël Varane retiring from the national team, all signs point for Griezmann to be next in line as captain. However, that wasn’t the case.
Didier Deschamps believes choosing as captain Kylian Mbappé was the right decision
While it’s a delicate situation to navigate, Deschamps stated that Griezmann understands the decision. As a result, there was no internal controversy for the Paris Saint-Germain star taking the reigns of Les Bleus.
“I am delighted with this choice,” Deschamps said (h/t Le10Sport). “I knew that everything would go well. Kylian fully assumes this role on and off the field. It does not weigh on him. It makes him responsible. He took his role to heart, defends his players well, knows how to create a link between the youngest and the oldest.
“Concerning Antoine, at no time did I think that I was going to lose him that he had a small disappointment, and even a big one, at the time, yes. He is vice-captain. In his way of being, Grizou needs to be in the game to have no constraints. Being captain implies more responsibilities but also certain constraints.”
Mbappé’s first significant task as captain will be guiding France to winning the 2024 UEFA Euro next summer. After the squad’s poor showing in 2021, Les Bleus probably wants to redeem themselves.
