Kylian Mbappe admits it’s easier to play as a forward for France with Paul Pogba in midfield

Kylian Mbappe mentioned that Paul Pogba's absence has forced him to change his movements on the pitch.

Kylian Mbappe admits it’s easier to play as a forward for France with Paul Pogba in midfield

Kylian Mbappe admitted that the French side misses Paul Pogba and his services. (via IMAGO)

French star Kylian Mbappe, admitted that the team is missing Paul Pogba‘s services, which made it easier for the attackers to function. France has experienced a significant goal drought at the Euros, scoring only three goals in four matches, two of which were own goals.

Kylian Mbappe, and the French attacking unit has come under fire for not being able to score a single goal at the Euros till now. The former PSG forward is the only goalscorer, having converted a penalty against Poland. They narrowly defeated Belgium in the Round of 16 due to an own goal by Jan Vertonghen. Amidst the criticism, the 25-year-old forward acknowledged the significant void left by Paul Pogba, who had been a key player in France’s midfield.

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The former Juventus midfielder is currently serving a four-year ban from football, following a failed doping test last summer. While speaking to reporters, Mbappe admitted his playing style changes based on teammates. He exclaimed that in the past, Pogba’s pinpoint passes allowed him to make risky runs behind the defense making it easier to score goals. However, the Madrid star exclaimed that he now has to adjust his approach to fit his current teammates’ strengths.

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In the middle, we had Paul Pogba. With him, you just have to lower your head, run, make a call and you know that the ball will arrive at your foot.
Kylian Mbappe on Paul Pogba (via Daily Mail)

The duo has played 41 matches together for Les Bleus, forming a highly successful partnership. The 2018 World Cup-winning midfielder tested positive for a banned substance and is suspended until August 2027.

Frenchman Paul Pogba insists he is not ‘finished’, vows to keep fighting against four-year ban

Paul Pogba, in a recent interview, dismissed retirement rumors following his four-year ban, stressing that he remains an active footballer. He conveyed a positive attitude and determination to fight against what he considers an unjust ban.

Paul Pogba at the Euros
Paul Pogba was spotted during France’s Euro Round of 16 match against Belgium. (via IMAGO)

The former Manchester United midfielder reaffirmed his status as a player and shared that he is currently training while staying positive. He expressed his desire to return to the sport. The midfielder is currently appealing the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, hoping to overturn or reduce the ban that has kept him off the pitch since last year.

Pogba is not finished, Pogba is here. I still feel like a player, I am training and in these moments I must only be positive. I am so eager, I feel like a kid who wants to be a professional.
Paul Pogba told Sky Italia (via Bein Sports)

Additionally, he was seen in the stands during France’s Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Belgium in Dusseldorf, where French supporters greeted him with chants and cheers.

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