France legend and former Arsenal player Robert Pìrès has criticized the decision by the France national team head Coach Didier Deschamps to name 24-year-old Kylian Mbappe as team captain.
Speaking yesterday to franceinfoplus, the former national player stated that the decision shows disrespect to the current players who have stayed long in the national team with regards to Antoine Griezmann who was suitable for the role. Additionally, the legend indicated there was sufficient contributions of Griezmann in his stay on international duty and awarding Kylian Mbappe the armband is illogical.
“A logical choice? Honestly, no. Considering his longevity, what he’s done down the years, I was expecting it to be Griezmann. It’s a lack of respect towards Antoine.” Pires said
Kylian Mbappe was named as team leader after Hugo Lloris announced his retirement from international football few months ago.
According to local football pundits, Griezmann gave it his all in 2014 WC, 2016 Euros (Runners up) and 2018 WC (Champions), making him suitable candidate for the captaincy.
France is in preparations for the coming Euros and will face Netherlands in the opening game
