Marcus Thuram, the France forward, has expressed awe at teammate N’Golo Kante’s formidable presence during training sessions, describing the experience as "horrible" due to Kante's unmatched prowess on the field. Thuram’s remarks come as France prepares for their Euro 2024 campaign opener against Austria on Monday, with Kante set to play a pivotal role for Les Bleus.
Kante, renowned for his tireless work ethic and exceptional midfield abilities, was a cornerstone of France’s World Cup-winning squad in 2018. Despite not featuring for the national team for two years, his recent call-up by head coach Didier Deschamps underscores his enduring importance to the French setup.
The 33-year-old midfielder, currently plying his trade with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, has left a lasting impression on Thuram and his teammates at Clairefontaine training ground. Thuram humorously likened Kante's impact to having "three of him" on the pitch, emphasizing how challenging it is to compete against him even in practice sessions.
"It’s horrible, we can’t play anymore," Thuram quipped during a press conference on Saturday. "As soon as we have him on our team we know we have won."
Beyond the jest, Thuram acknowledged Kante's exceptional qualities, praising his incredible contributions and reaffirming his status as one of the world's best midfielders. Thuram's sentiments reflect the collective admiration within the French camp for Kante, whose presence injects confidence and stability into the team.
"I think in one week he reminded us why he was one of the best midfielders in the world," Thuram added. "We are very happy to have him with us."
As France gears up for their Euro 2024 opener against Austria, Kante’s return to the international fold has bolstered their prospects. His ability to break up opposition attacks, distribute play efficiently, and provide relentless energy in midfield is expected to be instrumental in France's quest for continental glory.
Kante’s journey from being a crucial figure in Chelsea’s successes to becoming a linchpin for France highlights his remarkable career trajectory. His resurgence with Al-Ittihad and subsequent recall to the national team underscore his enduring relevance and impact at the highest level of football.
For Thuram and his teammates, training alongside Kante not only elevates their preparation but also instills a winning mentality. The anticipation surrounding Kante’s performance in Euro 2024 reflects the optimism within the French camp, as they aim to replicate their past successes on the international stage.
Marcus Thuram’s admiration for N’Golo Kante’s influence and dominance in training underscores the significance of experienced players like Kante in the French national team setup.
As France begins their Euro 2024 campaign, Kante’s presence symbolizes reliability and excellence, qualities that Thuram and his teammates value immensely. With Kante in their ranks, France remains poised to navigate through challenges and strive for victory in the upcoming tournament.
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