France coach Didier Deschamps said star striker and captain Kylian Mbappe asked to be taken off during extra-time in their Euro 2024 quarter final triumph against Portugal.
Deschamps revealed Mbappe admitted to being tired amid his inconsistent performances in the competition – with just one goal to his name, coming from the penalty spot against Poland.
The 25-year-old has also failed to convert chances, as he looks uncomfortable in his mask after suffering a broken nose in the opening game of the tournament.
In Friday’s quarter final against Portugal, the attacker spent a moment down on the turf, briefly removing his mask after he was hot hard on the side of his face with the ball.
He later requested to be subbed which led to him missing the shootout.
“Yes, he’s always very honest with me and the team, when he feels he doesn’t have the capacity to accelerate…”He’s not at his top form … he felt very tired indeed,” Deschamps said.
“I saw him struggling during the first period of extra time. It was pointless [to leave him on]. Kylian has always been honest with me and the group, so it was only natural to bring in some new blood.”
Despite Mbappe’s absence in the shootout, France were able to claim victory, winning 5-3 and booking their semifinal ticket to face Spain.
