At 5:31 PM on Monday, June 9, 2025, Vietnam time, a new controversy has ignited French football following explosive statements from Lilian Thuram, the legendary former defender of Les Bleus. Thuram harshly criticized Didier Deschamps for allowing Kylian Mbappé to retain the captain’s armband during the recent 5-4 friendly defeat to Spain. According to Thuram, Mbappé’s on-field attitude was too casual and lacking in commitment, an accusation that shocked fans. He also targeted another PSG player, without naming him, accusing him of contributing to the team’s decline. However, Deschamps responded with a firmness that immediately silenced Thuram.
The match against Spain, played yesterday at the Stade de France, was marked by a stunning scenario, with Les Bleus losing after leading 4-2. Mbappé, despite scoring twice, was criticized for individualistic choices and a lack of defensive effort, particularly in the final minutes when Spain scored three goals. Thuram, known for his outspoken stance, said in an interview with France Football: “Mbappé plays as if he’s above everyone else, and that’s detrimental to the team. As for that PSG player, he needs to wake up.” These words have rekindled tensions surrounding Mbappé’s leadership, especially after his move to Real Madrid.
Deschamps’ response was swift. At a press conference this afternoon, the coach defended his player with blistering authority: “Lilian should focus on his past rather than judging my team. Kylian is our captain, and I decide.” This retort not only disarmed Thuram, who did not respond, but also strengthened Deschamps’ position in the face of growing criticism. Fans are divided: some support Thuram, believing that Mbappé must take more responsibility, while others applaud Deschamps’ firmness.
On social media, the hashtags #ThuramVsDeschamps and #MbappeCapitaine are trending, garnering thousands of comments. The name of the PSG player Thuram is targeting remains a mystery, but speculation points to Ousmane Dembélé, whose inconsistent performance has been noted. This controversy comes at a delicate time for Les Bleus, who are preparing for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The relationship between Deschamps and his former teammates, like Thuram, appears to have deteriorated, adding a layer of complexity to the team’s management.
For now, Deschamps must navigate these internal tensions and the expectations of the fans, while Mbappé is called upon to prove his worth as a leader. Thuram, for his part, risks losing some of his credibility if he does not back up his accusations. This affair could mark a turning point in the dynamics of Les Bleus, but one thing is certain: the debate over leadership and commitment remains at the heart of discussions in French football.
At 5:31 PM on Monday, June 9, 2025, Vietnam time, a new controversy has ignited French football following explosive statements from Lilian Thuram, the legendary former defender of Les Bleus. Thuram harshly criticized Didier Deschamps for allowing Kylian Mbappé to retain the captain’s armband during the recent 5-4 friendly defeat to Spain. According to Thuram, Mbappé’s on-field attitude was too casual and lacking in commitment, an accusation that shocked fans. He also targeted another PSG player, without naming him, accusing him of contributing to the team’s decline. However, Deschamps responded with a firmness that immediately silenced Thuram.
The match against Spain, played yesterday at the Stade de France, was marked by a stunning scenario, with Les Bleus losing after leading 4-2. Mbappé, despite scoring twice, was criticized for individualistic choices and a lack of defensive effort, particularly in the final minutes when Spain scored three goals. Thuram, known for his outspoken stance, said in an interview with France Football: “Mbappé plays as if he’s above everyone else, and that’s detrimental to the team. As for that PSG player, he needs to wake up.” These words have rekindled tensions surrounding Mbappé’s leadership, especially after his move to Real Madrid.
Deschamps’ response was swift. At a press conference this afternoon, the coach defended his player with blistering authority: “Lilian should focus on his past rather than judging my team. Kylian is our captain, and I decide.” This retort not only disarmed Thuram, who did not respond, but also strengthened Deschamps’ position in the face of growing criticism. Fans are divided: some support Thuram, believing that Mbappé must take more responsibility, while others applaud Deschamps’ firmness.
On social media, the hashtags #ThuramVsDeschamps and #MbappeCapitaine are trending, garnering thousands of comments. The name of the PSG player Thuram is targeting remains a mystery, but speculation points to Ousmane Dembélé, whose inconsistent performance has been noted. This controversy comes at a delicate time for Les Bleus, who are preparing for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The relationship between Deschamps and his former teammates, like Thuram, appears to have deteriorated, adding a layer of complexity to the team’s management.
For now, Deschamps must navigate these internal tensions and the expectations of the fans, while Mbappé is called upon to prove his worth as a leader. Thuram, for his part, risks losing some of his credibility if he does not back up his accusations. This affair could mark a turning point in the dynamics of Les Bleus, but one thing is certain: the debate over leadership and commitment remains at the heart of discussions in French football.
