Deschamps Defends Mbappé's Playing Style and Leadership Role
During a candid discussion at the sports press festival in Laval, French coach Didier Deschamps stated that team captain Kylian Mbappé should not be expected to run "11 kilometers in every match." Deschamps defended Mbappé against claims of selfishness, responding to a journalist's light-hearted remark about the Real Madrid forward being the only player not to cover significant ground.
"This applies to the goalkeeper as well; that’s your analysis. I don’t believe it, even if some players do run shorter distances than others," he said.
The 57-year-old coach added, "If you want him to run 11 kilometers in every game, that’s unnecessary; he won’t do it."
Guy Stéphane, Deschamps' assistant, who was also present, confirmed that Mbappé plays at high speeds and with great intensity, which sets him apart as an effective forward.
Deschamps concluded by stating, "You may have your opinions about Kylian’s personality, but young players admire him. While some may view him as selfish or isolated, he truly acts as a leader within the French national team."
