A powerful moment defined France’s World Cup journey thus far, but it wasn’t captured in a spectacular bicycle kick from Michael Olise that struck the Swedish post or in the squad’s camaraderie aboard their private jet. Instead, it was the heartfelt embrace between Kylian Mbappé and Didier Deschamps, followed by the entire team celebrating their first goal in a decisive 3-0 victory over Sweden.
Deschamps later remarked that Mbappé’s sprint towards the technical area had “They delivered when I was away and now I’m back, they know I’m here 100%. Team spirit doesn’t win you matches but it can help you lose them. The collective strength is above everything and Kylian is the best shining example.” Just a week prior, the head coach had taken a step back to mourn the passing of his mother, and the team wanted to publicly express their support for him. “I’m already hated enough as it is” Deschamps commented. “They delivered when I was away and now I’m back; they know I’m here 100%. Team spirit doesn’t win you matches but it can help you lose them. The collective strength is above everything and Kylian is the best shining example.”
The French are typically comfortable with expressions of affection, so perhaps one more from their football team would normally go unnoticed. However, the bond between the squad and their coach runs deep, predating their 2018 World Cup triumph, yet the emphasis on unity serves a practical purpose for the tournament favorites.
It is well known that internal strife has plagued Les Bleus in the past. Perhaps the most infamous incident occurred during the 2010 World Cup, where a rift between the players and coaching staff led to a disastrous exit. The fallout from Nicolas Anelka’s clash with coach Raymond Domenech resulted in his expulsion, followed by the team’s refusal to train, culminating in an early elimination. An investigation exposed significant divisions and hints of racial tension within the squad.
Fast forward to 2026, and while racism persists, Les Bleus stand united against it. Mbappé finds himself at the center of criticism directed at athletes who engage in social and political discourse, particularly concerning France’s far-right sentiments. Despite feeling the backlash and being cautioned to remain apolitical, he firmly stated, “I’m already hated enough as it is.” Nevertheless, Deschamps has offered unwavering support for Mbappé, a sentiment echoed by the entire squad.
This backing is undoubtedly beneficial, yet it is not guaranteed. Deschamps has embraced a nurturing role this summer, and his squad has reciprocated with trust. The mutual bond within the team is continually reinforced, exemplified by gestures like the group hug at MetLife Stadium.
It’s evident that this mentality is also being utilized by Deschamps to implement his tactical strategy. The French have entered this tournament fielding four attacking players, a departure from their more conservative 4-3-3 formation seen in the last European Championship. Deschamps appears to believe he can balance security with adventurous play, catering to both the fans and his players, while demanding high performance from them.
Moments of brilliance have emerged throughout the tournament, including Mbappé’s unexpected commitment to pressing opponents defensively. This work rate is not typically associated with him. The trio of PSG forwards he plays with, along with Michael Olise from Bayern Munich, are well-acquainted with an aggressive counter-pressing style. What might have seemed like an extravagant choice has now become an effective approach, allowing France to navigate their matches with ease.
Deschamps has instilled trust in his players, and they are visibly repaying it. This reflects his sophisticated management style, as the seasoned French coach appears to relish his final tenure in international management. For Mbappé, now 27 and captain since 2023, this represents a significant step as he evolves into the team’s leader. He embraces the responsibility with a smile, which could pose a formidable challenge for their opponents.
- World Cup 2026
- Kylian Mbappé
- France
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