As preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, former France international Jean-Michel Larque has strongly criticized the French national team for failing to deploy Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele in his preferred role on the pitch.
The former midfielder expressed frustration with Les Bleus’ tactical decisions ahead of their opening World Cup fixture against Senegal on June 16. According to Larque, France is making a costly mistake by not maximizing the strengths of one of the world’s most influential attacking players.
Speaking during a recent football discussion, Larque questioned why the reigning Ballon d’Or holder continues to be used outside his most effective position despite his outstanding performances at club level.
According to him, France appears to be the only major football nation that does not utilize its Ballon d’Or winner where he naturally performs best.
Larque stated that he would have preferred to see Kylian Mbappe operating in his favored attacking role during France’s warm-up matches. He also suggested a more balanced attacking structure featuring Michael Olise on the right wing, Ousmane Dembele through the middle, and Mbappe attacking from the left flank.
The veteran football analyst argued that such a setup would allow each player to perform in their strongest position while creating a more dangerous and balanced attacking unit for the national team.
He further expressed concern that France continues to sacrifice Dembele’s effectiveness despite the player’s exceptional qualities and recent achievements. Larque emphasized that repeatedly overlooking the natural strengths of the Ballon d’Or winner could become a significant issue as the World Cup progresses.
The criticism arrives at a time when expectations surrounding Dembele are extremely high following another remarkable campaign with Paris Saint-Germain.
The French forward enjoyed an impressive season, producing 20 goals and 11 assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. His consistent displays played an important role in PSG’s attacking success and further strengthened his reputation as one of football’s elite performers.
With France considered one of the favorites to challenge for World Cup glory in 2026, tactical decisions involving key stars such as Dembele, Mbappe, and Olise are expected to remain a major talking point among supporters and football analysts worldwide.
As the tournament begins, attention will focus on whether France’s coaching staff adjusts its approach to unlock Dembele’s full potential and maximize the team’s chances of lifting football’s most prestigious trophy.
Football fans around the world will closely monitor how Les Bleus line up against Senegal and whether the concerns raised by Larque prove justified during the competition.
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.