How Kylian Mbappé is viewed inside France camp before Senegal opener | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé, 27, heads into the World Cup after a trophyless season at Real Madrid, with Senegal awaiting France on Tuesday at 21:00. According to L'Équipe, staff and team-mates outline how their captain is viewed and how the armband has shaped him.

Didier Deschamps says Mbappé has long been central to the collective and, since taking the role, more conscious that his words carry for France. He describes frequent dialogue even outside international windows and calls him a relay leader who helps bed in youngsters.

Assistant Guy Stéphan sees him as a formidable leader and defender of cohesion. He recalls telling a young Mbappé he would become France’s top scorer, and now the captain is one behind Olivier Giroud.

Fitness coach Cyril Moine depicts a driving force for animation and atmosphere, a locomotive for the group. Mbappé works through demanding physical sessions, clings on and sets the tone in areas less natural to him, fully committed to this preparation.

Team doctor Franck Le Gall says dealings during injuries are straightforward, with clear information and cooperation, and an easy-going demeanour. Press chief Raphaël Raymond adds that since March 2023 Mbappé has been the squad’s most regular media voice, occasionally held back to keep focus on the collective, and a model professional supported by experts.

Security officer Mohamed Sanhadji highlights a striking curiosity beyond football in this build-up, from logistics and travel to organisation and diet, and a willingness to share guidance on recovery and sleep. He notes Mbappé will challenge team-mates or speak to the FFF president when needed, proposing solutions for the common good.

Lucas Digne says he bridges young and old and raises standards on and off the pitch. Aurélien Tchouaméni points to his presence before, during and after games, his ability to lift the group, and a playful side while leading by example.

Mbappé portrays himself as more attentive to detail, more mature and calmer, clearer on what captaincy requires and more alert to life behind the scenes. He jokes he is no wise elder, preferring to say he simply has experience.

Source: L'Équipe