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SportsDeschamps denies Mbappé is a 'dictator', defends his captaincy
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In a press conference following France's qualification for the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals against Morocco, coach Didier Deschamps strongly rejected claims that star player Kylian Mbappé has become a 'dictator' as captain of Les Bleus. Deschamps stated categorically that Mbappé has not changed, calling the portrayal inaccurate and contrary to reality. He emphasized that Mbappé arrived with the right mindset from the first day of training camp, speaks on behalf of the group, and relays players' grievances to him selflessly. Deschamps praised Mbappé as a calm captain who looks after others and commands the team's respect. The article also references recent controversies, including Mbappé's refusal to shake hands with the Paraguayan goalkeeper after a tense match. Deschamps' comments aim to dispel negative media narratives and reinforce Mbappé's positive influence within the squad.
Source report
By Jordan Pardon
Kylian Mbappé hasn't changed. When asked whether the all-time top scorer for Les Bleus had become a "more mature" captain, Didier Deschamps was categorical.
"No, he hasn't changed, you make him out to be a dictator. I've been saying it from the start, and I'm not going to contradict myself. Kylian has an image, for some people, that isn't at all the reality."
Deschamps made these remarks after France qualified for the World Cup quarter-finals against Morocco.
He added:
"Since the first day of the training camp, he arrived with that state of mind. He knows very well that when he speaks, he speaks on behalf of a group. I spend a lot of time talking with him; he also relays to me the grievances of the players that aren't necessarily his own. He fully takes it on. To be a calm captain, if you want to look after others, you can't have problems with yourself, and if there's one player who fits that description, it's Kylian. Everyone follows him."
Published: 05/07/2026 08:06 Updated: 05/07/2026 08:08
Source
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertRegional
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