Zidane backs Dembélé after another difficult France game

Ousmane Dembélé has kept the full backing of France coach Zinédine Zidane after another difficult international appearance. The Paris Saint-Germain forward wore the captain’s armband with Kylian Mbappé absent, but his latest performance did little to end concerns over his form.

France defeated Belgium 4-1 in the Nations League on Monday. Dembélé started on the right and was replaced by Michael Olise after 60 minutes, having failed to score in any of France’s four matches since Zidane took charge.

Zidane rejected the idea that Dembélé had produced a poor display. He praised the attacker’s energy at the start of both halves and said he had performed well on the flank. The coach also highlighted his ability to operate in different positions and described his conduct as exemplary in his role as captain.

Olise’s introduction gave France greater attacking impact late in the game. The Bayern Munich player set up Rayan Cherki for the team’s third goal in the 81st minute before scoring twice, in the 88th and first minute of stoppage time. His decisive contribution contrasted with Dembélé’s lack of end product, but Zidane made clear that the captain remained fully trusted.