The key architect behind France’s semi-final triumph over Morocco in 2022, Antoine Griezmann, observed from the stands as Les Bleus advanced past the Atlas Lions, securing their place in a third successive World Cup semi-final.
Griezmann, now 35 and recently transferred to Orlando City, hadn’t been present at a France match since his international retirement in 2024 following a brief period as vice-captain.
Initially, the captaincy appeared destined for Griezmann when Hugo Lloris stepped down after the last World Cup. As Didier Deschamps’ most devoted player, many expected he would don the armband, but in a surprising twist, the head coach chose Kylian Mbappé instead.
This decision to appoint the then 24-year-old as captain sparked a national debate. Griezmann later acknowledged that missing out on the role after nearly ten years of service was a difficult reality to accept.
Fast forward three years, as Mbappé propelled France into another World Cup semi-final with a goal—his eighth of the tournament—in the 2-0 victory against Morocco, any doubts surrounding his selection have faded. At just 27, he now fully embraces a leadership role alongside his responsibilities as a goal-scorer.
Mbappé’s seniority has been a prominent theme throughout this World Cup. He is one of only two players in the current squad who have participated in the last two tournaments, the other being Ousmane Dembélé. N’Golo Kanté and Lucas Hernandez, both World Cup champions, were sidelined for the Qatar tournament due to injuries.
In various media interactions during the World Cup, Mbappé has emphasized the wisdom he has gained from his experiences in two complete tournaments. As comparisons between this team’s progress in the United States and past French squads grow, he has aimed to provide context.
“I’ve been world champion and I’ve been runner-up, and this team is neither one nor the other,” he stated as he departed the Boston Stadium post-victory over Morocco. “As it stands it’s not the best team I’ve played in, but it might be the one with the most potential, the one with which we can look to the future more easily. This is a team that we can dream with, although the best teams are those who win.”
His prudent mindset reflects his experience with talented French squads in former tournaments. France entered Euro 2020 boasting an attack featuring Mbappé, Griezmann, and Karim Benzema—an ensemble that L’Équipe heralded as “the envy of every country” before the tournament. However, they faced an unexpected exit against Switzerland.
“We’re well aware of the potential of this team, but that’s not what wins you matches,” Mbappé remarked. “We’re confident when we step out on to the pitch, but we still have to prove ourselves before being called invincible, or whatever superlative you want to use.”
Despite facing criticism after a contentious departure from Paris Saint-Germain, support for Mbappé remains strong whenever he dons the French national jersey.
His ability to navigate opposing defenses, media scrutiny—both favorable and critical—and his leadership within the squad continue to validate Deschamps’ decision from three years ago. The 27-year-old has wholeheartedly embraced his role as a mentor to the team’s newcomers.
One way he expresses this mentorship is by instilling a sense of reverence for the World Cup as the pinnacle of football. “As a player, nothing is bigger than playing in the World Cup. We’re well aware of that and we’re trying to get that across to the younger players,” he shared on Thursday evening. Few are as qualified as Mbappé, who has netted 20 goals in 20 World Cup matches, to convey this message.
“This country has a history in the World Cup,” he continued with a serious tone. “They need to know about it, and know the pressure that comes with playing for France.”
Les Bleus have remained unfazed by the expectations that accompany their status as tournament favorites, a reputation that has only strengthened in recent weeks. As they gear up for their semi-final in Dallas, Mbappé is determined to ensure his younger teammates maintain their composure to reach the potential he envisions.
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