Ousmane Dembele, the Paris Saint-Germain and France winger, clarified the truth behind his disagreement with Kylian Mbappe regarding the Ballon d'Or.
The Italian national team will visit their French counterparts on Friday evening for the third matchday of the UEFA Nations League.
Dembele clarifies the truth about his dispute with Mbappe
Dembele said in comments during a press conference before the match, as reported by the French website "Foot Mercato": "What argument would I present to the France Football jury to convince them to vote for me for the Ballon d'Or? I have no argument."
He continued: "I have never done that. I do not seek to market myself or promote myself; they are the ones who hold the decision-making power, while I do not try to market myself."
Regarding Zinedine Zidane: "The coach gives us great freedom, especially us attackers. There is a philosophy similar to the one followed at Paris Saint-Germain, as we try to enjoy playing."
He added: "As the coach said, he wants his team to play attacking football, and we have players who are good at handling the ball. There are many similarities with Paris Saint-Germain; it is the same here, as he grants me great freedom, both at the club and with the French national team."
He emphasized: "I am surrounded by wonderful players, and we frequently swap positions with Olise, Doue, and Barcola. I give my best effort to deliver a good performance, and I realize that I need to create assists. I enjoy great freedom with the French national team, and I truly enjoy my time with this squad."
On the truth behind his disagreement with Kylian Mbappe: "We have spoken, and we sit next to each other at the table; there is no problem whatsoever. Mbappe is an important player for the national team, and he has proven that over the years. He has scored many goals and is the captain."
He concluded: "When he is present, we are extremely happy. Conversely, there are other players capable of taking responsibility. It is a collective effort, as all 23 players are important, and that is what matters most."
