In a year filled with sporting triumphs in France, the national football team has not been among them, despite reaching the semi-finals of the recent Euros. While athletes like Léon Marchand and Teddy Riner symbolized a joyful summer during the Paris Olympics, Les Bleus have struggled through a series of mini-crises, fostering a sense of malaise—even discontent—with Kylian Mbappé emerging as its emblem. As captain, Mbappé embodies a team that has often underperformed. Early in March, Mbappé warned of 'deficient leadership' following a friendly loss to Germany. Although results improved in the summer, the team's morale remained low.
Deschamps, whose contract was extended through the 2026 World Cup after the 2022 final in Qatar, has faced criticism. His pragmatic approach, often seen as over-cautious, is less tolerated when it doesn't result in trophies. France's semi-final run in Germany was marked by an emotionless performance, with only one goal scored by a French player in open play. Mbappé, more than anyone, has borne the brunt of public frustration. A recent Odoxa poll revealed that only 54% of over 1,000 respondents held a positive view of Mbappé, a 12% drop, while just 58% found him likable, down from 80% in 2019.
Mbappé's popularity has also waned in stadiums. He was booed during the September international break, a reaction to his dismissive comment about Les Bleus' playing style. His return to France as a Real Madrid player also met with hostility. Deschamps acknowledged that Mbappé was 'not in the best condition psychologically' during the last camp. Mbappé's absence this time is controversial. He suffered a thigh injury in late September, initially expected to keep him out until after the international break. However, he played against Lille in the Champions League, just before Deschamps' squad announcement, and started against Villarreal before the break.
The resulting outrage saw many former footballers and pundits criticizing Mbappé. Patrice Evra accused both PSG and the national team of giving Mbappé too much power. The Irrésistibles Francais, a major supporters group, questioned Mbappé's absence as captain. The French Football Federation president, Philippe Diallo, tried to calm the situation, stating that Deschamps had consulted with Mbappé and Real Madrid's medical staff before deciding not to select him.
Deschamps has repeatedly supported this version of events. The complaints about the hectic calendar, echoed by players and officials, bolster their argument. However, broader issues sustain the outrage. Antoine Griezmann's shock retirement plays a part. Mbappé's appointment as captain after Hugo Lloris' retirement meant Griezmann was overlooked. Griezmann reportedly felt undervalued at times and considered retiring in 2019. This time, even Deschamps was unaware of Griezmann's intentions.
Mbappé's captaincy is often cited as a factor. Olivier Giroud acknowledged that the decision affected Griezmann. The Irrésistibles Francais noted that 'the real captain has left,' referring to Griezmann. The 'good guy-bad guy' dichotomy has emerged: Griezmann heroically exits, while Mbappé, the chosen one, is seen as shirking responsibilities.
Another factor is a lack of relatability and the nostalgia for the past. Aurélien Tchouaméni summarized France's situation, noting the end of a golden generation and the emergence of a new one. The 2018 World Cup-winning generation is gradually ending. With Lloris, Varane, Giroud, and Griezmann retiring, none of the 2018 final starters are in the current squad. Fans seek continuity, and Mbappé represents that. His absence highlights the fragility and unease of this transition.
Mbappé finds himself at the center of a perfect storm, symbolizing a deeper malaise with the national team. He has the potential to remedy it, but not at this moment.
