France are the favourites to win this summer's European Championship, but there is some unrest in Les Bleus' squad after Kylian Mbappe did not take too kindly to some comments made by Olivier Giroud.
The Chelsea striker came off the bench to score two late goals in France's 3-0 friendly win against Bulgaria, but when asked by a journalist about his 'quiet' performance he responded bluntly.
"You say that I was quiet, but it's because sometimes I ask for the ball and it doesn't reach me," Giroud said.
"Then, I try to make as many calls as possible to my teammates and try to provide solutions in the box."
According to L'Equipe, Mbappe felt singled out by Giroud's comments, particularly as the 34-year-old highlighted the assists provided by Benjamin Pavard and Wissam Ben Yedder.
"With two good assists from Ben Yedder and Pavard, I was able to finish the game well, but we could have scored more goals if we had been more efficient," Giroud added.
Giroud apologised to Mbappe after lunch at France's training base, but reports in France state that the 22-year-old was not satisfied and told Les Bleus boss Didier Deschamps that he wanted to give a press conference on Thursday to give his side of the story.
However, Deschamps dissuaded Mbappe, calmed him down and told him to focus on France's Euro 2020 opener against Germany on Tuesday, June 15.
The comments made by Giroud, say L'Equipe, have not affected the dressing room but have left an impression on Mbappe, who is not happy about the whole situation.
France did receive some good news on Wednesday, as Karim Benzema only suffered a knock during the Bulgaria victory and could be fit in time to face Germany.
siyabdiktz
532
I think that Giroud has only say the truth cause even if you look at the reaction of mbappe when Giroud score the goal you'll understand
Pehbcknrz
340
Kylian Mbappe may be the best upcoming player but the least team player. It’s simple, Giroud said the truth, anyone who watched the last match could see clear as the day, Mbappe was not passing the ball to Giroud. It’s probably because of his friendship with Benzema (who too has an issue with Giroud) influence his behaviour as well. Nevertheless, football isn’t like tennis, it’s a team sport mate!
Moteiopty
324
For anyone who watched the game of France vs Bulgaria would agree with Giroud claims. . Mbappe was too selfish especially to pass the ball to Giroud. . THIS KID NOW IS TOO ARROGANT
Anthovagasta
258
Germany, Portugal and Spain to France: You should keep this vibe going[Crylaugh]
fabckmnoz
257
Mbappa really think he is a superstar.. Giroud better than him..
Geebabs
243
I don't understand why Mbappe is feeling singled out Giroud didn't mention his name,so why the whole unrest and brawl? it shows he was guilty of the accusation he should just try and make corrections Giroud is naturally not the type to complain or cause problems but in this game of soccer you have to play as a team before you can win
dominickwilliams
227
Mbappe to Giroud bro we won World Cup together and went ahead to win Champions league without me and you want me to help you be France all time goal scorer? No way it’s not happening [Crylaugh][Crylaugh]
kaycee23
157
the only team to stop France is France
ejleo
137
I hope Mbappe realize that pride goes before a fall... If you think he singled you out, he has done the right thing by apologizing to you, if you can't accept it, then get lost..