France legend Bixente Lizarazu has criticized star player Kylian Mbappe, saying he is not as explosive as he used to be.
After being eliminated from the semifinals of Euro 2024 by eventual winners Spain, France National has continued to experience difficulties.
Some even said their struggles began after the final of the 2022 World Cup. ‘Les Bleus’ were eliminated in the group stage of the most recent UEFA Nations League, sent home by Spain in the semifinals of the European Championship, and lost at home against Italy 3-1 in their debut of the current Nations League.
However, they returned to winning ways in the second game of their Nations League clash, defeating the Red Devils of Belgium 2-0.
With the Real Madrid talisman suffering a goal drought, the French Team seems bereft of other ideas. But Didier Deschamp made a huge decision by dropping him on the bench against the Belgian side, and that provided Randal Kolo Muani the opportunity to shine as he gave the 2018 World champions the lead before they wrapped it up in the second half.
Although Mbappe almost scored after coming in the second half, the Real Madrid attacker’s national team goal drought continues. He has scored two goals in his last ten games for the National Team.
Fans and former French footballers have criticized Mbappe.
Mbappe said at a press conference before the Belgium clash that he is at a stage in his life and career where he no longer puts himself under undue pressure.
“I come, play, and try to do my best to help the Team. What people think is the least of my worries.”
Lizarazu, who was part of the France 1998 winning squad, reacted to the comment of the France captain through a column in ‘L’Equipe.’
Launching strong criticism at the former PSG for his words and his current state of form, the six-time Bundesliga champion expressed surprise at such a comment, saying it was embarrassing.
The former France defender, who pointed out that the words used were inappropriate, added that that doesn’t show the qualities of a leader and certainly of a captain.
“You cannot be insensitive to the feelings of the French team’s fans, to the frustrations they may harbor, to the questions they may have,” he said.
While noting that the former PSG man remains a very good scorer, Lizarazu said that he is no longer as scary as before.
“We shall see if, in fact, he continues to struggle with his National Team or at Real Madrid or he finds a way to turn it around.”
