Deschamps defends Mbappé's 'selfish' style: 'Don't expect him to run 11km per match'
France boss Didier Deschamps has backed Kylian Mbappé against criticism over his work rate, explaining the Real Madrid star's unique role in Les Bleus.
France manager Didier Deschamps has come out swinging in defence of Kylian Mbappé, dismissing concerns about the Real Madrid forward’s supposed lack of running during matches for the national team.
Speaking at a press event in Laval alongside his assistant Guy Stéphan, Deschamps responded to claims that Mbappé was the only French player who doesn’t put in the hard yards.
Deschamps backs his captain
The France boss initially joked that the goalkeeper also doesn’t do much running, before getting serious about the criticism aimed at his captain:
“If you want him to run a minimum of 11km per match, don’t bother, he won’t do it,” Deschamps stated bluntly.
This no-nonsense defence comes as Mbappé continues to settle at Real Madrid, where his performances have been under the microscope since his high-profile free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
Quality over quantity
Assistant coach Guy Stéphan chipped in with some tactical context, pointing out that what Mbappé lacks in distance covered, he more than makes up for with:
- Much higher intensity sprints
- Strategic positioning
- Game-changing moments in the final third
It’s clear the French coaching staff value Mbappé’s explosive bursts over continuous movement across the pitch – a philosophy that has served them well in recent tournaments.
The ‘selfish’ striker debate
Deschamps also addressed the perception of Mbappé as an individualist: “You have this image of a selfish, individualistic guy, and it’s true that a forward must also be selfish to some extent.”
However, the World Cup-winning manager was quick to defend his star’s character: “But I can assure you that within the French team setup, he behaves like a proper captain.”
The gaffer’s comments highlight the balancing act required of elite forwards – they need that touch of selfishness in front of goal while maintaining their responsibilities to the team.
For all the naysayers having a bubble about Mbappé’s work-rate, Deschamps’ message is crystal clear: judge the Madrid man on his output, not his mileage.