Kylian Mbappé has spoken out in support of his fellow Frenchman, William Saliba, calling for the Arsenal defender to be given a starting role in the French national team.
“I’ve known him since he was very, very young,” Mbappé said. “We went to the same primary school in Bondy. We used to play football together during breaks even though we weren’t in the same year, but he asked to play with us. We agreed because he looked quite big already!”
“Then my dad coached him at AS Bondy. I’m three years older than him so I’ve followed his progress closely. Seeing him in the national team from Bondy to Les Bleus, it makes me so happy. I’ve tried to help him integrate as quickly as possible.”
“This season, he’s become a key player for Arsenal and one of the best defenders in the Premier League. He’s also getting more playing time for the national team. For me, he has all the qualities to take a starting spot in the French team in the future.”
“I’ve followed his journey like a proud older brother. We don’t have any problems and we often tease each other. For example, I often joke that he wants to be the star of Bondi, but that’s never going to happen!”
Mbappé’s comments come after Saliba enjoyed an impressive season with Arsenal, helping the Gunners finish second in the Premier League and qualify for the Champions League. He has also made a number of appearances for the French national team, including in their recent friendly wins over Belgium and Italy.
Saliba’s form has led to calls for him to be given a starting role in Didier Deschamps’ side, with many believing that he could form a formidable partnership with Mbappé at the heart of the French defense. Mbappé’s endorsement of Saliba is sure to further increase the pressure on Deschamps to give the young defender a chance.
It remains to be seen whether Deschamps will heed Mbappé’s advice and hand Saliba a starting spot in the French national team. However, with the World Cup just around the corner, Deschamps will need to make a decision soon on his best defensive pairing.