Euro 2024: Didier Deschamps stands up for Kylian Mbappe following negative comments about the French captain’s displays.

Didier Deschamps has come to the defense of Kylian Mbappe amidst criticism over the French captain’s performances at Euro 2024. Mbappe has not been at his best in the tournament, only scoring one goal from the penalty spot against Poland.

The 25-year-old striker’s performance in France’s quarter-final victory over Portugal on penalties has received particular scrutiny, with Mbappe facing criticism from both French media and fans. Additionally, Deschamps’ side has become the first team in European Championship history to reach the semi-finals without scoring a goal from open play.

Following France’s quarter-final win, Mbappe admitted that he asked to be substituted by Deschamps during extra time, causing him to miss the shootout. However, Deschamps has defended his player and highlighted Mbappe’s achievements on the field.

“Don’t you think he has already made enough history with what he has done so far?” the coach stated on 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.”

Mbappe has been wearing a mask after breaking his nose in a collision with Kevin Danso during France’s opening match against Austria. There have been suggestions that Mbappe is not fully fit, but Deschamps dismissed those claims, saying, “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.”

Despite missing France’s second group match against the Netherlands, Mbappe has started every game for Deschamps in the tournament. He has also received support from his teammates ahead of France’s semi-final clash against Spain.

“Kylian is the player who scored three penalties in a World Cup final,” midfielder Youssouf Fofana said. “I don’t know many players who have achieved this feat. I only know one. Whether it’s him or a player like Antoine (Griezmann) who is vice-captain, they have done things that most of the players in the dressing room haven’t done. When they talk, we listen.”

Forward Randal Kolo Muani added, “He (Mbappe) has this gift of carrying a group. He has so much experience – I think he was born to pull a group forward.”

Mbappe has a history of delivering in big matches, scoring a hat-trick in France’s 2022 World Cup final defeat against Argentina and netting his side’s fourth goal in their win in the 2018 final against Croatia.

In conclusion, despite criticism and concerns about his fitness, Mbappe has the support of his coach, teammates, and a track record of performing in crucial moments. As France prepares for their semi-final clash against Spain, all eyes will be on Mbappe to see if he can once again rise to the occasion and make history on the field.