Lizarazu on Kylian Mbappé & Antoine Griezmann: “They need each other and they know it.”

Former French international, Bixente Lizarazu, has stressed the importance of the relationship between Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann for the future success of the French team in a column for L’Équipe. Speaking ahead of France’s trip to Ireland in the EURO 2024 qualifiers, Lizarazu stated that the two players have different personalities but complement each other well on the pitch.

Lizarazu said, “They have too much need of each other and they know it. Griezmann is a leader in his own way, with a lighter touch than Mbappé, but he is important for his technical ability and his intelligent playmaking. Mbappé is a goal-scorer who needs good support and passing around him, and there is no better passer than Griezmann.”

The former defender highlighted that the balance of the French team’s social and generational aspects will be important for their success in the coming months. Mbappé’s willingness to learn from experienced players like Griezmann and Giroud is a positive sign, and Lizarazu also emphasized the need for other leaders to emerge in the team.

Lizarazu said, “It will be necessary for other leaders to emerge alongside Griezmann, so that Mbappé can continue to grow as a player and a leader himself.” He added, “Mbappé has shown that he understands the importance of having experienced players around him, and he needs to keep valuing their contributions.”

GFFN | George Boxall