France/Iraq – Deschamps speaks up for Dembélé and Barcola

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·23 Juni 2026

France/Iraq – Deschamps speaks up for Dembélé and Barcola

Didier Deschamps, head coach of the France national team, spoke at a press conference after the Bleus’ 3-0 win over Iraq last night (France/Iraq video highlights) on Matchday 2 of the World Cup. In particular, there was talk about Paris Saint-Germain, with forwards Ousmane Dembélé (29) and Bradley Barcola (23).

Deschamps: “Maybe you’ll get off his back”

Dembélé decisive? Maybe you’ll get off his back and find another target. There’s no issue with Ousmane. He has to readjust to a system he doesn’t play in all year long. If he feels good physically, and that’s the case, I trust him. He has no doubts. He’s a decisive player, Kylian is too, and that’s nothing new. But “Ous” has that ability as well. It’s very good for him and, above all, for the France team.”

Deschamps: “I hope the ones who start will play well.”

Has Barcola earned points? When I make changes, I hope the ones who start will play well. I’ll have to think it over, I’m spreading out the playing time. Désiré started the first match. Barcola played the second. I can’t bring on all the attacking players, but “Barco” did some very interesting things, with a strong work rate and defensive tracking back

After several days of criticism, Dembélé responded with an interesting performance, capped by an assist and a goal. That should bring him a bit of peace in the Ballon d’Or debate. We know the media often move too fast, so they will no doubt get carried away again. And, unfortunately, perhaps look for “another target,” as Deschamps puts it. It’s a sad habit.

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It should not fall on Barcola, who also turned in a fairly convincing performance. Without being able to say that he has suddenly become an undisputed starter for the Bleus. They have a very deep squad. Changes are possible for competition, to adapt to the opponent, or for rotation. The management of the match against Norway will be interesting, since qualification for the round of 16 is already secured, and all that remains is the battle for first place. A race in which France start with the advantage on goal difference.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.