It has been claimed that the decision to make Kylian Mbappe the captain of the France national team shows "a lack of respect" towards one of his international teammates.
France coach Didier Deschamps recently announced that Mbappe is the new national team captain following the retirement of former skipper Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane following the nation's runners-up finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Paris Saint-Germain superstar was nominated for the armband alongside experienced compatriot Antoine Griezmann, who has earned 117 caps for the country since making his debut back in March 2014.
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However, with Mbappe having been selected as the team leader, the Atletico Madrid talisman was named vice-captain, a decision that has reportedly left the 32-year-old discontent and contemplating his future with the 2018 World Cup winners.
Former Les Bleus winger Robert Pires has since expressed that he is taken aback by the decision as Griezmann seemed more qualified to take the role.
When asked if he thought Mbappe was the right choice, Pires told L'Equipe: "A logical choice? Honestly, no. Considering the longevity, the years gone by, I was expecting it to be Griezmann who was nominated.
"I am surprised. It's a lack of respect for Antoine I find, even if - I insist - I have nothing against Kylian."
According to French outlet Le Figaro, Atleti forward viewed himself as a strong contender for the captaincy due to several reasons, namely; his international experience, loyalty to Deschamps, as well as the fact that he would be less a less divisive figure in the squad.
It is said that the player did not hide his pain at France's training camp at the national football centre in Clarefontaine after missing out on the armband.
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It is further reported that the upcoming games against Netherlands and Ireland in the UEFA European Championship qualifiers are set to play a key role in whether his international career continues.
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