The appointment of Kylian Mbappe as the new captain of the French national team raises pros and cons. As is known, Kylian Mbappe has been appointed as the new captain of the French national team by Didier Deschamps.
The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star replaces the previous Les Bleus captain, Hugo Lloris, who retired after the 2022 World Cup. Kylian Mbappe is considered to have met all the qualifications to become the leader of his colleagues in the French national team. Then, who served as Mbappe’s representative in the French national team was Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann.
“Kylian Mbappe is the new France captain. Antoine Griezmann is the vice-captain,” France national team coach Didier Deschamps told Telefoot, quoted from ESPN, Wednesday (22/3/2023). “Kylian fulfills all the requirements to have this responsibility. On the pitch and in the squad, being a key element,” added Deschamps.
Mbappe is likely to make his debut as captain in the inaugural Euro 2024 Qualifying Group B match against the Netherlands. The match takes place at the Stade de France, Saturday (25/3/2023).
Pros and cons
The appointment of Kylian Mbappe as the new captain of the French national team caused mixed reactions. Some agree, but some do not agree.
French national team legend Robert Pires is one of those who disagree with Mbappe being the new captain of France. Pires was surprised by Deschamps’ decision and felt Griezmann was more deserving of the task.
“Considering age and experience, years gone by, I expected Griezmann to be nominated. I was surprised,” Pires told France Info, quoted from Sportskeeda. “He is a strong player for Didier (Deschamps), the player who counts the most, who has had the most consecutive tenures. I found a lack of respect for Antoine, even if, I insist, I don’t hate Kylian,” said the former Arsenal midfielder.
Pires also emphasized to the public not to forget the services of Griezmann, who played an important role in leading France to the 2022 World Cup final. “We must not forget what Antoine did at the last World Cup. He has been the best and most consistent,” said Pires.
While Pires contra, Michel Platini supports Deschamps’ decision to appoint Mbappe as France captain. “It was a very good idea from Didier Deschamps, by giving him the responsibility of being captain. He allowed Kylian – if necessary – to go further, higher, stronger,” said the former UEFA president.
Apart from Platini, former Les Bleus midfielder Alain Giresse also supports Mbappe’s appointment as captain. “It is very beneficial for the team to highlight this player. Giving him the captain’s armband is a symbol that he is the benchmark of the team,” said Giresse. “He reflects the personality (of the team) right now, with the way players look at the moment, the ambition, the determination. He has approached the game in a different way, but with the same belief,” he added. “Like all goalscorers, he will put in a good performance. He will get less attention than others off the field, like captains in other teams,” said Giresse.
Kylian Mbappe has 66 caps with the French national team with a contribution of 36 goals and 23 assists. On the other hand, Antoine Griezmann has made 117 appearances in various competitions, contributing 42 goals and 36 assists. Both played a major role in the success of the French national team in winning the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
