Support for Kylian Mbappé: Is it Justified?

France’s manager, Didier Deschamps, has recently defended his star player, Kylian Mbappé, amidst criticism of his performance in Euro 2024. Despite only scoring once in the tournament – a penalty against Poland in the final group game, Mbappé has been under scrutiny for his lack of goals from open play. Deschamps stood by his captain, reminding critics of Mbappé’s illustrious career and the milestones he has already achieved within the sport.

Deschamps addressed concerns about Mbappé’s fitness, especially given his recent nose injury that saw him don a mask throughout most of the tournament. The manager acknowledged that even if Mbappé is not at 100%, his mere presence on the pitch poses a threat to their opponents and forces them to adapt. Despite facing physical challenges, Mbappé has showcased resilience and determination to continue contributing to the team’s success.

Teammates, Randal Kolo Muani and Youssouf Fofana, also came to Mbappé’s defense during a recent news conference. Fofana highlighted Mbappé’s impressive track record, including scoring three penalties in a World Cup final – a feat achieved by very few players in the sport’s history. Kolo Muani emphasized Mbappé’s leadership qualities, describing him as a player born to lead and inspire his team.

As France prepares to face Spain in the semifinals, the support for Mbappé remains unwavering. Despite the criticisms surrounding his performance in Euro 2024, there is a collective belief in Mbappé’s abilities to rise to the occasion and make a significant impact on the upcoming match. Whether he scores or not, Mbappé’s influence transcends mere statistics, shaping the team’s dynamics and instilling confidence among his teammates.

While the criticisms of Kylian Mbappé’s performances in Euro 2024 may be valid to some extent, it is essential to recognize his past achievements, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to the team’s success. As France marches forward in the tournament, Mbappé’s supporters remain steadfast in their belief in his capabilities, regardless of the outcome on the field.