Didier Deschamps shuts down Kylian Mbappé critics: “He won’t run 7 miles a game”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada kicks off in just four months. France, led by Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé, is among the favorites to reach the July 19 final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Head coach Didier Deschamps has made it clear he has full confidence in his captain and star player at a sports journalism event in Laval in his home country.

A leader beyond statistics

“We tend to see him as selfish or individualistic,” Deschamps said of the Real Madrid forward. “Of course, he’s a striker - it would be ridiculous if he didn’t have a bit of ego. But I can assure you, since becoming captain, his voice carries weight with the entire team.”

Impact over mileage

“Whether you like it or not, young players look up to him. And if people want to judge Kylian by saying he has to cover at least seven miles per game, don’t bother - he’s not going to do it. But he brings many other important and decisive qualities to the team,” Deschamps added.

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