Mbappé eyes 100th France cap, says current team is more offensive than 2018 and 2022 squads
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Kylian Mbappé will earn his 100th cap for France in an upcoming match against Iraq, becoming the tenth French player to reach this milestone.
- Mbappé discussed team evolution, stating the current French squad is more offensive than in 2018 and 2022, and emphasized the importance of winning teams as football's current trend.
- He expressed comfort playing in various attacking positions, asserting that his physical and mental well-being, rather than a specific role, contributes to his performance.
Kylian Mbappé is set to achieve a significant milestone, earning his 100th cap for the French national team in their upcoming match against Iraq. This makes him the tenth French player in history to reach this century of appearances.
The teams that win always inspire current football. The world of football is made of the culture of the moment. It is always the team that wins that is right.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the game, Mbappé reflected on the evolution of the French team under coach Didier Deschamps. He noted that the current squad is more offensive-minded compared to the teams of 2018 and 2022. "We are more offensive, more geared towards the front than in 2018 and 2022," Mbappé stated, attributing this to the long-term development of Deschamps' methods and the integration of new young talents.
Mbappé also touched upon the philosophy of winning teams in football. "The teams that win always inspire current football," he said, acknowledging the sport's focus on immediate success. He added that while teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich have historically influenced playstyles, it is ultimately the winning team that sets the standard.
We are more offensive, more geared towards the front than in 2018 and 2022. In the group, it is in continuity with what has been built over the long term under Didier Deschamps.
When asked about his preferred position, Mbappé downplayed its importance, highlighting his physical and mental readiness as key factors. Having played on the right, left, and centrally, he believes his adaptability across the attacking front three is more crucial than a fixed role. "The position is not important. It's a question of animation, of the association of profiles, or even the opponent," he explained, emphasizing his comfort and effectiveness wherever he plays.
I don't think it's due to the position, I feel good physically and mentally. I've played three World Cups, one on the right, one on the left, I started this one up front… It shows that the position is not important.
Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.