Mbappe has become indispensable for France, combining lightning speed, clinical finishing, and leadership from the front. With 52 goals in 87 appearances, he has already overtaken Thierry Henry and is closing in on Olivier Giroud’s record. The striker has only started two games for France in the World Cup qualifiers as he was out with injury and was left out of the France squad in-agreement with the player as he prioritised his well-being. However, the ex-Paris Saint-Germain striker brings in a lot of experience and is seen as a game-changer by Deschamps.
Beyond scoring, the French forward creates chances, stretches defences, and inspires his teammates, prompting France coach Didier Deschamps to praise him by stating he has “legs of fire.” In the press conference, Deschamps announced the full-squad for the upcoming games, giving a call-up to Mbappe.
France coach Deschamps spoke at length about Mbappe’s impact and lauded his contributions during the press conference before their clash against Azerbaijan and Iceland.
“He’s a central striker. The range of abilities depends on the system. With us, he has freedom, like most strikers. In the center, there are fewer constraints, especially defensively. He has legs of fire, he’s confident, and his head is also fine. He exudes a lot of power and speed, and that’s where he makes even more of a difference,’ said Deschamps.
Les Blues coach further added: “He’s totally committed to us, he fully assumes his role as captain and his responsibility towards the group. We can always do better. He’s a central striker who likes to have freedom and participate in the game.”
Mbappe’s start at Madrid was marked by hurdles such as adapting to the tactical demands of a top club, intense media pressure, and a few physical setbacks that slowed his early momentum. Despite this, his determination and the coaching staff’s tactical adjustments helped him rebound strongly. This season, he has delivered impressive performances in both La Liga and the Champions League, scoring eight goals in seven La Liga matches and contributing five goals in two Champions League appearances so far while finding his Mesut Ozil in teammate Arda Guler. His combination of speed, skill, and clinical finishing has cemented his return to peak form under Xabi Alonso.
France will be hosting Azerbaijan at the Parc Des Princes on October 10 before heading to Reykjavik to face Iceland on October 15.
