Oliver Giroud
Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has played down the suggestion of a rift developing in the France squad ahead of the European Championship. Didier Deschamps’ side finished their preparations with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Bulgaria on Tuesday evening but it was the post-match events that courted the most attention. Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wasn’t happy with the service provided by his teammates and that reportedly left Kylian Mbappe furious.
Olivier Giroud said: “I was a little quiet because, sometimes, I make runs and the balls aren’t forthcoming. I am not saying that I always make the best runs but I am seeking to offer solutions in the box.”
According to L’Equipe, that significantly irked Mbappe and he had to be persuaded not to issue his own comment to the media in response to Giroud’s comments and was left feeling ‘attacked’. However, asked about the matter ahead of the start of the tournament, Pogba played down suggestions of a rift in the camp of the 2018 World Cup champions.
Paul Pogba said: “No, the only tension is on the back and legs. There is always a great atmosphere with everyone. Between Olivier and Kylian, there is nothing. Or at least there has been nothing in front of me. Maybe what was said was conveyed incorrectly.”
France’s Euros campaign begins on Tuesday with a challenging clash against Germany, which is followed by a tie against Hungary. Les Bleus’ final group-stage match is a repeat of the 2016 final, with the opponents being Portugal – the defending champions. Pogba’s future has come under significant debate heading into the summer due to the fact his current deal is due to expire at the end of next season.
