Post-Zidane France Squad: Mbappé's Role, Newcomers Shine, Dembélé's Form Questioned

Following Zinédine Zidane's initial training camp with the French national team, several questions remain. Our consultants weighed in to provide clarity.

Was the camp a success?

Objectively, yes. France secured three wins and a draw in four matches, topping their group with ten points, ahead of Italy (seven points). Jérôme Rothen noted that beyond results, the team implemented new playing principles compared to the Didier Deschamps era, offering more spectacle, despite a poor showing against Turkey and subpar first 70 minutes against Belgium.

Jean-Michel Larqué praised Zidane's bold approach with frequent squad changes, calling it refreshing. He highlighted how new faces seized their opportunities.

Who impressed, who faltered among the newcomers?

Jean-Michel Larqué singled out central defender Jérémy Jacquet for his impressive one-on-one defending, positional play, and complementarity with Upamecano. Larqué called his debut a true revelation.

Lucas Da Cunha also stood out. Rothen described him as a refreshing player who brings spontaneity and impulse to midfield, crucial for breaking lines.

Esteban Lepaul, however, showed his international limitations, according to Rothen, who believes Lepaul needs time to adapt to top-level play. Souleymane Diawara, while noting Lepaul didn't score, saw potential in his created chances and expressed a desire to see him play again.

Was Ousmane Dembélé the biggest loser of the camp?

Rothen felt Dembélé had a poor camp and acknowledged the player is likely aware. He cautioned against definitive judgment, suggesting post-Ballon d'Or pressure and responsibilities (like captaincy) might have impacted him. Rothen expects more from him.

Diawara believes Dembélé has nothing left to prove. He attributed the perceived dip to high expectations following an exceptional Ballon d'Or season, reminding that Dembélé isn't naturally a prolific scorer. Diawara emphasized that Zidane was pleased with Dembélé's work rate.

Has Michael Olise become the leader of Les Bleus?

Rothen is effusive about Olise, calling him a player one plays football to play with. He noted Olise's moments of genius, particularly against Belgium, identifying him as the primary link between midfield and attack. Rothen stated Olise is capable of scoring, assisting, and winning back possession, always with the collective in mind. He sees Olise as being on a different level, second only to Lamine Yamal in world football.

Larqué welcomes multiple leaders, including Olise, Mbappé, and Doué, stating France is stronger with several leaders. He confirmed Olise has arrived among the elite.

Can Rayan Cherki thrive in this midfield role?

Diawara believes Cherki will flourish, especially under a coach like Zidane who values flair. He described Cherki as looking like a child opening presents.

Larqué is more reserved, urging Cherki to translate his potential into consistent performance. He pointed out that Cherki hasn't yet proven himself like others, even at Manchester City. Larqué stressed that consistent quality, not intermittent brilliance, defines a player. He believes Zidane will demand more complete, sober, and professional performances for Cherki to earn a starting spot.

Should Zinédine Zidane continue with Mbappé on the left?

Rothen questioned Mbappé's desire to play on the left and found his hour against Turkey inconclusive, despite a goal before injury. He noted Mbappé didn't seem engaged or happy. Rothen hopes this was due to physical condition and expects clarity in the next camp. He acknowledged Mbappé's versatility but stressed the need for dynamic, high-pressing wingers, and expects Zidane to maximize Mbappé's potential in either a left-wing or central role.

Larqué sees the issue as potentially displacing Doué if Mbappé plays left. He suggested a lineup with Doué on the left, Mbappé central, and Olise on the right, which then raises the question of Dembélé's position. Larqué concluded this is the natural consequence of competition within the squad.