"Mbappe wants to participate." For the president of the French Football Federation Philippe Diallo, confirmed in his functions this Saturday, the observation is clear. The best player on the France team wants to take part in the 2024 Olympic party and he himself will push him in this direction. "There is a kind of higher interest of the country that must prevail. The whole world will have its eyes on us. We must line up our best team, with the captain of the Blues, "assured Philippe Diallo to the newspaper Le Monde.
For the boss of French football, it seems unthinkable not to perform well during the Olympic football tournament. In 2021, the Blues had not even passed the group stage after only one win, two defeats and 11 goals conceded. "It's been a century since we've had the Games. We experienced a kind of stampede in Tokyo, I don't want it to happen again, "said Philippe Diallo.
"Kylian Mbappé is here to make history"
To do this, a fundamental work must be carried out, according to him, with the clubs, in order to move in a common direction with the supervisors of the Olympic part: "We will undertake with Marc Keller a work of conviction. Raise awareness among French clubs, tell them that it is in the general interest to field the best players. By the end of the year, I want clubs and coaches to be able to meet the people of Olympism. Tony Estanguet, athletes to feel the vibration of the Games. »
Because for the boss of the FFF, the objective is clear. Doing well will not be enough: "With the best players, you can get on the podium and get a medal." And for that, Philippe Diallo wants to put all the chances on his side. As a reminder, the Olympic France team can only field three players over the age of 23 in its squad. So why deprive yourself of your best element among the lucky three? "Kylian Mbappé (24) is a record hunter, he is here to make history. Having a gold medal at the Paris Olympics will be a way to make history. »