Kylian Mbappe taking France captaincy shows direspect towards Antoine Griezmann, claims Robert Pires

Kylian Mbappe being named France captain shows a ‘lack of RESPECT’ to Antoine Griezmann, claims Robert Pires, saying he is ‘surprised’ at Didier Deschamps’ decision… with the Atletico Madrid star contemplating RETIRING

  • Kylian Mbappe was picked over Antoine Griezmann as the next France captain 
  • Griezmann is now said to be upset and close to retiring from the Les Bleus side
  • Ex-France star Robert Pires believes the decision shows direspect to Griezmann  

Robert Pires has hit out at Didier Deschamps’ decision to hand Kylian Mbappe the France captaincy – claiming it shows ‘a lack of respect’ towards Antoine Griezmann.

Mbappe was picked to lead Les Bleus after goalkeeper Hugo Lloris retired from international duty, with Griezmann – who has picked up 117 caps since making his debut in 2014 – named as his vice-captain. 

The Atletico Madrid forward is set to be ‘hurt’ and ‘upset’ that Mbappe was given the armband over him and is considering whether to retire from France duty as a result.

Former Les Bleus and Arsenal star Pires sympathises with the 32-year-old, stressing he was surprised Deschamps opted to pick Mbappe instead.

When asked if he thought Mbappe was the right choice, Pires replied: ‘A logical choice? Honestly, no. Considering the longevity, the years gone by, I was expecting it to be Griezmann who was nominated.

Kylian Mbappe being named France skipper is disrespectful towards Antoine Griezmann, claims Robert Pires

Pires said he was 'surprised' at the decision because of Griezmann's 'longevity' in the team

Pires said he was ‘surprised’ at the decision because of Griezmann’s ‘longevity’ in the team

‘I am surprised. It’s a lack of respect for Antoine I find, even if – I insist – I have nothing against Kylian.’

Pires – who played 79 times for France, scoring 14 times and winning the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championships – added that Griezmann should have been given the captaincy now and then Mbappe should have taken over in two years.

Speaking this week, Deschamps said Mbappe had all the skills to excel as the next France skipper. 

‘I think if he has one quality, in addition to all his other qualities, it’s that he’s someone who is pretty good, very good at communication,’ he continued. 

‘So, I don’t think that’s a problem on that side.’

France boss Didier Deschamps said Mbappe had the qualities to thrive as captain this week

France boss Didier Deschamps said Mbappe had the qualities to thrive as captain this week

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