Deschamps, Mbappé Rally Behind Dembélé Amid World Cup Criticism
France’s coach and captain defend Ousmane Dembélé, insisting the winger will elevate his game against Iraq after facing intense scrutiny.
Didier Deschamps, head coach of the French national team, has staunchly defended winger Ousmane Dembélé following a wave of media criticism after the team’s opening World Cup 2026 match against Senegal. With France preparing for their second group stage fixture against Iraq, Deschamps expressed unwavering confidence that Dembélé, a recipient of a prestigious individual award recognizing him as one of the world’s top talents, will significantly improve his performance, dismissing concerns about his fitness and current form.
A Coach’s Unwavering Trust
Deschamps addressed journalists directly, accusing them of “tightening the noose around him, as if they found rich material for criticism.” He clarified that Dembélé faces no muscular issues, attributing his initial struggles against Senegal to a season where his playing minutes at Paris Saint-Germain were carefully managed. “He came after a season where he couldn’t play regularly, as his minutes were organized at Paris Saint-Germain. I am convinced his level will rise,” Deschamps stated.
The coach further elaborated on Dembélé’s challenging first half against Senegal, acknowledging it mirrored the team’s overall performance. “He went through a difficult first half, just like the team, due to what the Senegalese team presented and also because of too many technical errors in our passing,” Deschamps explained. He highlighted a crucial tactical difference: Dembélé operates as a pure striker for PSG, a role distinct from his duties with the national team, which necessitates “some adjustments.”
Mbappé’s Resounding Endorsement
Adding his powerful voice to the defense, France captain Kylian Mbappé offered a contrasting view to the coach’s assessment of Dembélé’s early performance. Mbappé, speaking at the press conference, declared Dembélé the “best attacking player among the four” against Senegal, emphasizing his unique ability to bring fluidity to the game. “In the second half, Michael Olise and I were decisive, but he was important too,” Mbappé noted.
Mbappé, a close confidant of the Paris Saint-Germain attacker, dismissed any concerns about his teammate’s state of mind. “Ousmane is very calm. He is a highly decorated talent and has the confidence of the group and the coaching staff. He is a very important player for us. He has been here for years and knows exactly how the French team operates,” Mbappé affirmed. He also reminded critics that Dembélé had sustained an injury at the end of the season, underscoring his belief that Dembélé “will continue to progress starting tomorrow and will be a decisive player for us.”
The Road Ahead: Iraq and Beyond
With the upcoming match against Iraq potentially securing early qualification for France in the 2026 World Cup, all eyes turn to Dembélé’s response on the pitch. His pivotal role in Paris Saint-Germain’s recent domestic triumphs has placed him under an intense spotlight, making his performance a key narrative point for the tournament. Deschamps’ and Mbappé’s unified front aims to insulate Dembélé from external pressures, fostering an environment where he can rediscover the form that makes him one of France’s most electrifying talents. The team’s strategy against Iraq will likely leverage Dembélé’s unique skillset, hoping to expand play and create the spaces he thrives in, proving his defenders right.
