France's Griezmann Calls for New Generation of Leaders Ahead of Ireland Clash

Speaking ahead of France’s Euro 2024 clash against Ireland at the Parc des Princes, France vice-captain Antoine Griezmann highlighted the need for a new generation of leaders within Didier Deschamps’ side. The following was transcribed by GFFN at the pre-match press conference.

“It is something that happens naturally (having leaders in the side). When it’s overdone, you can tell straight away. Some are made for it, through words or small gestures like Lucas, others can shout like Mike.”

France have had to deal with the retirement of several major players, with the likes of Hugo Lloris, Raphael Varane, and Karim Benzema all taking their international retirements. Griezmann is one of the experienced players of the France squad, but indicates that it is not only him and Mbappé that hold the leadership reigns, “We’re an open group, a family. Everyone can speak up, that’s our strong point.”

Antoine Griezmann on Ireland test

Griezmann also spoke about the test ahead of Les Bleus, an Ireland side which caused problems in the reverse fixture. “It was a complicated game out there, and at times we were all suffering at the back. Maignan saved the team 2/3 times.”

“We’re expecting a lot of intensity and we’re going to have to keep the ball if we don’t want to suffer so much. We’ll have to win the duels. Winning tomorrow would be very important, not decisive. It would give us confidence, but we can’t finish on a freewheel.”

GFFN | George Boxall