AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan went viral on social media after showcasing his ball-playing skills during a French National Team training session. Maignan surprised everyone by playing as an outfield player and delivering a precise pass to Adrien Rabiot, demonstrating his impressive technique.

Meanwhile, France's head coach, Didier Deschamps, avoided confirming whether he will use Ousmane Dembélé as a 'false 9' against Croatia, similar to his role at PSG. The coach attributed the winger’s recent goal-scoring streak to his high level of efficiency rather than a transformation in his playing style. “He hasn’t changed the way he plays, but he is in full confidence right now, and he knows how to make an impact. That’s his own merit,” Deschamps explained ahead of the Nations League quarterfinal first leg.

Deschamps Avoids Discussing Dembélé’s Evolution

Since PSG coach Luis Enrique positioned Dembélé as a central attacker, the player has delivered outstanding performances, scoring 22 goals in 17 matches in 2025 so far. However, Deschamps refrained from acknowledging the Spanish coach’s influence on the forward's development and refused to confirm whether he will deploy him in the same role against Croatia. “I’m not here to give our opponent any clues. What matters is that the team functions with the best possible technical balance,” he stated.

Additionally, the French coach publicly defended Adrien Rabiot, who recently faced harsh criticism from PSG ultras. “I had a long conversation with him. What happened is unacceptable. He is affected by it, but he is doing well,” Deschamps assured.

Mbappé's Admiration for Modric

On the other hand, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, who returns to the national team after six months, expressed his admiration for his club teammate and upcoming opponent, Luka Modric. Jokingly, the striker admitted he plans to ask the Croatian how to win a Ballon d’Or. “It’s a privilege to share a locker room with him. We’ve been joking around this week, but I want to ask him how to win a Ballon d’Or and have him tell me,” he said with a laugh.

Mbappé also voiced his support for Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana, who was recently subjected to racist abuse after a match against Arsenal. The French star lamented that such incidents still happen in 2025. “It’s pathetic that there hasn’t been more progress in the fight against racism. We all stand with him and support him wholeheartedly,” he emphasized.

With Mbappé returning and Dembélé in top form, France aims to make a strong statement in the Nations League as they face Croatia in what promises to be an exciting and high-quality encounter.