Kylian Mbappe heaps praise on ‘superb’ West Ham United star Alphonse Areola ahead of Euro 2024
Kylian Mbappe has praised West Ham United star Alphonse Areola ahead of the EUROs where he will be the second or third-choice goalkeeper.
The European Championships begin on Friday (14 June) with France’s opening game four days later on Monday (17 June).
The Hammers goalkeeper has been called up to Didier Deschamps’ squad for the tournament where he will act as backup to Mike Maignan and Brice Samba.
It is clear that he has made a positive impression on his national teammates with Mbappe heaping praise on Areola in an interview with Ouest-France (13 June)
He said: “It’s one of the oldest. He knows the selection better than most of us. He is coming off a superb season with West Ham, where he found the stability he was looking for at the club.
“‘Fonfonse’ is someone who has always been able to adapt to the roles he has had. In Blue, he was brought in to play, was second goalkeeper, then third. This role is thankless, but so important.”
West Ham star Alphonse Areola in France squad
There is an argument to be had that number one, Maignan is one of the best goalkeepers in the world so playing second fiddle to him is no disservice.
The Hammers number one had a positive season after taking over as number one from Lukasz Fabianksi at the start of the campaign.
He certainly performed well and was one of the most consistent players as a frustrating midtable finish was secured.
This saw him included in the France national team ahead of the EUROs which is a huge compliment to him given the strength of that squad.
He might not play at all but there is no doubt that it will be a great experience ahead of his return to the London Stadium this summer.
Upon his return, he will be looking to impress his new head coach Julen Lopetegui as a new era begins at West Ham without David Moyes.
In other West Ham news, one player was slammed by the press after a below-par display for his national team.
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