On the eve of the World Cup semi-final between France and Spain, L'Équipe consultant Lizarazu analyzed the special relationship between Deschamps and Mbappe.
The match will take place at 3:00 AM Beijing time on July 15th. Lizarazu stated that Deschamps is undoubtedly the coach with whom Mbappe has the best synergy, and the coach who allows him to perform at his best, especially during this World Cup. Deschamps falls into the "coach-manager" category, prioritizing creating optimal conditions psychologically and tactically to fully unleash the players' value. Deschamps' match philosophy is not dogmatic; he doesn't require all players to adapt to the same system or reach the same level.
In the French national team, Mbappe has solidified his position as the number one player. Deschamps has consistently supported him, even when some were extremely critical of him. Deschamps insisted on playing Mbappe centrally, while others had hoped to play Dembele as a number 9, like at Paris Saint-Germain. Deschamps understood better than anyone how to tap into Mbappe's talent and incredible scoring ability, rather than dwelling on his lack of defensive effort.
Deschamps repeatedly emphasized Mbappe's importance, thus quelling negative public opinion. Mbappe thrived with the French national team while working with Deschamps. Lizarazu believes, "He is the best coach in the world at managing Mbappe."
Lizarazu further explained Deschamps' approach, which led France to the semi-finals of three consecutive World Cups. He said, "A player always needs to feel important in the team, and that applies to any position. Mbappe is the captain and France's top scorer, so it's normal for him to receive special treatment. This positive environment and trust helps players perform at their best. When you're in such good form at this World Cup, it's also easier to be selfless."
“The French team has several diamonds, but not all of them are at the same stage of development. Dembele has performed well for the French team and he is very dazzling, but he has not yet reached Mbappe’s level. Olise is an excellent player with great potential. He is a rough gem that can improve the team’s attack, but he has only made 23 appearances for the national team. Deschamps is well aware of their differences.”
Recalling his era, Lizarazu said: "Zidane was so important at the time that he was specially treated, whether under Roland Coubis at Bordeaux or later under Jacquet and Lemerre. This never made the other players unhappy because we only wanted to see Zidane at his best. That's how management works. Superstars like Platini or Zidane were treated in a specific way in the past."
Lizarazu also mentioned that Deschamps sometimes takes the initiative, such as when he clarified that Mbappe is not a "dictator." As a player, you really appreciate a coach defending you publicly. In return, Mbappe is always willing to give everything for Deschamps. This spirit of sacrifice is what makes the relationship between coach and player so beautiful. Mbappe has also consistently praised Deschamps; after his mother's death, Mbappe specifically joined Deschamps and the entire team in celebrating after scoring against Sweden, a truly touching moment. The strong bond and mutual trust between the two is a major advantage for the French team in this tournament.
Just before leaving the French national team, Deschamps also demonstrated his ability to regain control.
