France’s international break ended on a high, thanks to a 2-0 win over Belgium in Lyon. However, just three days earlier, the loss to Italy (3-1) in Paris saw a “tense” atmosphere, in the words of Ousmane Dembéle, descend over Clairefontaine.
In the wake of that heavy defeat, Mike Maignan let his feelings be known in the dressing room post-match, criticising the commitment and behaviour of some of France’s star players, as revealed by L’Équipe. Whilst Kylian Mbappé was not named in person, the publication understands that Les Bleus’ captain was indeed a target of the rant by the AC Milan goalkeeper.
“Things had to be said,” said Jules Koundé earlier this week, highlighting the tension within the France camp during the recent international break, during which Mbappé’s behaviour has been called into question. The Real Madrid forward made a rare faux-pas in the media, dismissing fans’ objection to France’s pragmatic and negative play-style: “It’s the least of my worries,” said Mbappé, inciting rage from Les Bleus’ fanbase.
However, internally his behaviour has also been called into question. As well as reportedly being the subject of Maignan’s post-match rant, L’Équipe have described Mbappé as looking “lazy and disconnected” during the international break, and this was picked up on by the France staff. He may be he captain, but this latest camp has shown that Mbappé is not beyond reproach.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
