Mbappé Ready to Lead France Against Brazil in Boston Friendly
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national team, addressed the media in Boston on Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s friendly match against Brazil at Gillette Stadium. The game serves as a key preparation opportunity for both teams as they approach the 2026 World Cup.
World Cup Preparation and Atmosphere
Mbappé acknowledged the importance of the match as a rehearsal for the upcoming World Cup, stating, “Yes, and no. It’s a place we will return to and we can’t wait to return. We want to be there. We will play against a great team.” However, he also noted that the squad composition may differ come the summer tournament, adding, “there might be players who won’t be there, so it’s too early to say.” He emphasized the value of experiencing the atmosphere in the United States, stating, “It’s an amazing opportunity to be here…for culture.”
Fitness and Real Madrid
Addressing concerns about his recent knee injury and his role with Real Madrid, Mbappé expressed contentment with his current condition. “I have never been a player or a man with regrets. The only thing I observe is the present and the near future. I am happy to feel good, to feel both knees and to enjoy myself on the pitch,” he said. He also clarified that reports of a check-up on his right knee were untrue, attributing the misinformation to a lack of communication. Regarding his team’s performance in his absence, Mbappé stated, “It’s nice that the team can play like this, because it’s a great moment and it’s important that the team wins games.”
Team Dynamics and Opponent Respect
Mbappé highlighted the importance of integrating players like Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise into the team. “It’s extraordinary to have someone like Ousmane in the team. We need to develop a sense of automaticity with him,” he commented. He also expressed his admiration for Brazil, calling them “the biggest country of football” and acknowledging their five World Cup titles. “It’s always a challenge. They will be there for the final victory. It’s a pleasure, a challenge,” Mbappé stated.
Deschamps’ Successor and Captaincy
When questioned about the potential succession of Didier Deschamps with Zinédine Zidane as France’s manager, Mbappé dismissed it as an internal matter, stating, “I learned of the President’s statements when I was at an event. It is not an internal matter. We are focused on the present and what lies ahead.” He also reflected on the significance of captaining the team and the pursuit of winning the World Cup, acknowledging the rarity and importance of such an achievement.
Availability for Thursday’s Match
Regarding his availability for the match against Brazil, Mbappé stated, “You have to ask the coach, but I’m ready to play. The coach has to build his choices, but we players are ready to play every minute we’re given.”
Source: boston25news.com