According to Metro, Frank Lampard has expressed concerns about Ousmane Dembele's performance in France's attack following Les Bleus' second-place finish in their Euro 2024 group.
France seemed poised for top spot in Group D after Kylian Mbappe's penalty gave them the lead against Poland. However, Robert Lewandowski equalized for Poland, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Meanwhile, Austria's 3-2 victory over the Netherlands meant they topped the group, leaving France as runners-up. The Netherlands also advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
Looking ahead, France will face the runners-up from Group E – which includes Romania, Belgium, Slovakia, and Ukraine – in the round of 16 on July 1.
Concerns were raised by Frank Lampard, Alan Shearer, and Gary Lineker during BBC's post-match analysis, particularly regarding France's struggle to optimize Kylian Mbappe's potential.
"The slight issue is maybe not him [Mbappe], we know how brilliant he is, it’s the balance that they’re trying to get in and around him," Shearer commented.
Lineker added, "You mentioned Dembele on the right who is a player who has got so much ability but he can be a little bit exasperating at times."
Lampard highlighted Dembele's abilities but voiced apprehension about his consistency and decision-making in crucial moments.
"I think any player who can dribble with both feet, with close control which means they can go either way on you, is a special talent. But I do fear… he’s not a seriously young player anymore, when players year after year, watching the Champions League, do not deliver at that end of the pitch," Lampard remarked.
The trio's observations underscore ongoing challenges facing France as they prepare for their next Euro 2024 challenge.