In the press conference that French News outlet L’Équipe published earlier today, it was clear that Aurélien Tchouaméni was not only ready for the World Cup, but showed early signs of leadership – a role Les Bleus will need to fill with so many injuries, most notably Paul Pogba.
When asked if the World Cup objectives should be adjusted to account for the injuries, Tchouaméni’s response was clear, “No, the objective has not changed. We have a nice pool. We lost senior players but it’s up to the other players to perform.”
It stood out that Tchouaméni’s understanding of the process of growth as a footballer was well beyond his years. When asked about his performance since his first selection he replied, “It also corresponds to the performance of the team. I had good matches at the start and when we talk about bad performances, we are also talking about the Nations League in June where I was not good. I have to gain consistency, that’s part of learning.”
Tchouaméni spoke of being at Real Madrid, one of the most demanding clubs in the world, as a benefit rather than a source of stress.
“Not at all (referring to pressure), it doesn’t mean anything. The most important thing is the ground. I approach the competition with desire and enthusiasm, but no pressure […] When you play in the best club in the world, it allows you to develop a lot of new things. My tactical culture is different, I was able to progress in many areas and that gives me more confidence.”
If Les Bleus are to have success in the World Cup it will take the younger players not only stepping up, but assuming leadership roles. Though there are huge shoes to fill with the absence of players like Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kanté, Tchouaméni seems to be an emerging leader in Didier Deschamps’ locker room.
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