French team: N’Golo Kanté tells behind the scenes of his return

His return caused a sensation. Called up in the French team group for the first time since June 3, 2022 and a defeat against Denmark in the Nations League, N’Golo Kanté (33) made his comeback with the Blues and is among the 25 French people who will compete in Euro 2024, in Germany. A return justified by Didier Deschamps, who explained that his midfielder was “in very good conditions. He had a full season with a lot of matches. I’m happy with him.”, while he was exiled in Saudi Arabia, in Al-Ittihad. In front of the media this Sunday, the ex-Caen player commented on his return to the Château de Clairefontaine.

“Finding the French camaraderie, the teammates, the jerseys. I’m really enjoying being back.”he first explained. “Didier Deschamps was aware of my departure and was informed of my choice. I knew it was going to be complicated. But I had confidence in myself, telling myself that if I had a good season, I would have a chance of being back. This is the case for many European players. I found out at the last minute and I had a lot of fun. I thought it wasn’t going to happen, but when I got the news, I was happy and that’s the work of a good season. My return is deserved in relation to this. It was a pleasure. It was good to meet again. There are quite a few new faces, the return has gone well”.

N’Golo Kanté discusses his new role

Asked about his level in Saudi Arabia, where he played a full season with Al-Ittihad, the 33-year-old midfielder feels ready. “When the coach makes the choice, he takes the player and the person. He thinks it can go as far as possible. I have no doubts, I have played a lot of very close matches. I have good feelings and I feel capable of playing this Euro 2024, with the team. I come with the role I usually have, to be ready to give everything and give the best. The coach will make his choices, my role is to be ready”notably confided the former Chelsea midfielder.

Finally, N’Golo Kanté explained his new role that he will have with the Blues and ensures that he is “almost the same, an experienced player who must share with the young people in Arabia. We learn to live in a new group life, I wouldn’t say that I’m a cheater, because I’m not (smile). I have aged since my arrival in the selection. Transmission will happen naturally. They are players with a lot of quality.he who assured that he did not want to retire internationally for the moment. “I was going to Saudi to play and if I did things well, the door remained open”. A successful bet, therefore.