“I chose him because I consider that he has the profile to assume this responsibility, due to his experience, even if he is still young, and because of who he is,” Deschamps soberly justified. Tchouaméni, international since 2021, took part as a starter in the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. With 36 selections, he is now part of the executives, those around whom the French team will build in preparation for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
“One more step”
“It is with great pride that I take on this responsibility,” he admitted. We had a discussion with the coach, he informed me of this decision. I am very happy and content. I don’t think it’s worth worrying about, but I’m going to think about it for a long time because it’s something you dream about when you’re young. You have to take advantage of the present moment. »
Tchouaméni had not worn the armband for the Girondins, where he was regularly upgraded among the youngsters, but his personality, his talent and his position made him a credible candidate in the eyes of the educators at the training center. On the other hand, he had been captain twice in the U18 and U20 selections. This time, it will be among the big boys. “One more step,” summarizes Deschamps, who did not want to say whether this status would be renewed Monday evening in Belgium.
“This captain story was less of a big subject internally than it may have been in the media,” continues the Madrilenian. We remained very calm about it. The coach discussed it with different players. But it remains temporary. We know very well who the captain of our selection is. » In this case, Kylian Mbappé, appointed since the international retirement of Hugo Lloris after the World Cup in Qatar.
Special framework
“I spoke with Kylian last night, but not really about the captaincy,” smiled the former Navy and White player, when asked about the speech he will give in the locker room before this match against Israel. We have a lot of people who speak in the locker room. It’s more of a feeling. Mike or other people did not wait to have the armband to speak out. »
