Clement Pedron, Media365 Posted on Thursday, July 4, 2024 at 6:47 p.m.
Blues coach Didier Deschamps, during a press conference on the eve of the Euro 2024 quarter-final match between France and Portugal, showed a certain calmness on Thursday. For his part, captain Kylian Mbappé was keen to defend his compatriot Antoine Griezmann, who is the target of criticism due to his mediocre performances.
As usual, there was a huge crowd at the French team's press conference. On the eve of the Euro 2024 quarter-final between the 2018 world champions and Portugal, Didier Deschamps and Kylian Mbappe introduced themselves to the press on Thursday. All questions were addressed, from politics to the identity of the future opponent, including criticism of Antoine Griezmann and the status of the future Real Madrid player. The coach first evaluated his group. The former midfielder warned: “I feel good, there is a lot of work for the medical team.” It's the eve of the game so we won't do much today. » In front of the media, the former Monaco coach indicated that he has “several possibilities” to replace the suspended Adrien Rabiot this Friday evening.
Didier Deschamps was clearly asked about Portugal, a country that has not always been in style since the start of the tournament. “It's a balance of power,” DD said. This team prefers attack over defense. The Dutch team was relatively cautious, but so was Belgium. Will Portugal be the same? I know what Roberto Martinez likes to do. We will endeavor to have as much control as possible. » It has not escaped anyone's notice that this confrontation between France and Portugal will be a new version of the previous Euro final in 2016, which was organized on home soil. “The 2016 final? They (the Portuguese selection) were strong, and that was 8 years ago, and often Deschamps. It was painful. I don't know if he was stronger or weaker. We are in the quarter-finals. The best there. I don't know if it will be the same But it may affect some things. It is one of the best European teams. It will be a great match.”
Mbappe supports Griezmann
Before Didier Deschamps, it was Kylian Mbappe who sat in front of the press. After suffering a nose injury during the first match of the group stage against Austria, Kylian Mbappe gradually returned to his competition despite wearing a mask on his face. With a goal scored from the penalty spot, the Blues captain is far from the standards expected but will be hoping to find his feet quickly again. ” I don't think I've found all my legs, the former Parisian admitted. I've never been a player who makes excuses. I need good physical preparation, and this is the case with Real Madrid. » He also returned to his still imperfect game. “A striker must always adapt to his teammates. We had different players before like Paul Pogba who put the ball at your feet with just one touch. We can play less deep given the characteristics of the players. »
The Blues captain also did not forget to make a mistake in favor of Antoine Griezmann, whose performance in the tri-colour shirt is considered average at best. At the moment, we were unable to find the Colchonero from last season. Mbappé expressed his regret, saying: “He (Griezmann) has been slaughtered a little bit lately.” I find it difficult and unfair. Especially since the criticism came from the country. He is going through a difficult moment but we must support him, he has done a lot for selection. We throw it in the street and scratch it, it hurts a little. He always gave his all for the French national team and always had the right frame of mind. Help him, he is an important player for us. »
