Didier Deschamps suggests captaincy will change hands again following Aurélien Tchouaméni appointment | OneFootball

With Kylian Mbappé (25) absent from the France squad and with Antoine Griezmann announcing his international retirement prior to the current international break, Didier Deschamps was left with the task of designating a new captain for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium.

As reported by RMC Sport, Ibrahima Konaté, Jules Koundé and Aurélien Tchouaméni were the frontrunners for the role. As confirmed by the FFF on Wendesday, it was the latter who got the nod. “It is with a lot of honour that I take on this responsibility,” he said. ” I had a talk with the coach and then he informed me of his decision. I am happy of course. I am very proud. the most important thing for me is to help my team, be it with France or with Real Madrid,” said Tchouaméni in a press conference, transcribed by Get French Football News.

However, Deschamps alluded to another change of captaincy, maybe even later in the international break and for the second game against Belgium. “I chose Aurélien because I consider that he has a profile to assume responsibility, thanks to the experience that he has. That shouldn’t change the player that he is, it is an extra step for him. He isn’t the only one, other players can also have leadership [qualities]. Mike (Maignan), Ibou (Konaté), Jules (Koundé)… for Monday, we’ll see, and for after that too,” said Deschamps.

Whilst there is no question of Mbappé being relieved of the captaincy, there is a vice-captaincy to be claimed. Against Israel, Tchouaméni will have a chance to stake his claim.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle