France Coach Praises Mbappe‘s Tactical evolution Under Alonso, Eyes World Cup Record
LYON, FRANCE – Kylian Mbappé’s continued ascent with the French national team is not only yielding goals, but a broader tactical maturity fostered by his time at Real madrid under manager xabi Alonso, according to France’s national team coach. Mbappé, 24, marked Friday’s 2-0 victory over Ukraine with his 51st goal for Les Bleus, equaling Thierry Henry as the nation’s second-highest all-time scorer.
The milestone arrives as Mbappé continues to develop under Alonso’s guidance, a situation the coach believes is broadening the forward’s skillset. ”Xabi is forcing him to do different things, to be more involved in the build-up, to defend from the front,” the coach stated.”We are seeing the benefits of that with the national team. He’s becoming a more complete player.”
Mbappé’s 82nd-minute strike against Ukraine brought him level with Henry, with only Olivier Giroud (57 goals) ahead. The Real Madrid star acknowledged the significance of matching his idol, stating after the match, “A round of applause for titi! But now I want to get over it! It’s an honor to match a player like him. Everyone knows what he means to the French, and even more so to the forwards. He paved the way.”
The achievement prompted a congratulatory message from Henry himself, posted on Instagram featuring a throwback photo of a young Mbappé with the Arsenal legend, alongside images of both celebrating World Cup victories. The caption read, “Bravo Monsieur. Made in INF Clairfontaine,” referencing France’s renowned academy. Mbappé responded by liking the post.
France continues its Euro 2024 qualifying campaign against Iceland on September 9, with Mbappé aiming to close the six-goal gap to Giroud – a target he hopes to surpass before the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, stating, “Kylian is a key part of our plans, and we need him firing on all cylinders.”
