S. Dembélé
Oxford United · League One · Midfielder · #23 · Scotland · 29 yrs
S. Dembélé news
‘I love this job but I am always ready to call it quits if need be,’ Jurgen Klopp opens his Germany era with strange message
Jurgen Klopp has opened his Germany era with a warning. Jurgen Klopp has officially begun his era as Germany head coach with a strange message, warning that he is prepared to leave the job if certain circumstances arise despite describing the position as the highlight of his managerial career. Klopp said: “If you behave badly and don’t leave my family in peace then I’ll be gone, I’ll just turn away. I’m not doing this job for myself, I’m doing it for you. I’m taking this job even though I’ve seen how you’ve treated Julian Nagelsmann and Thomas Tuchel. I love this job but I am always ready to call it quits if need be.” The former Liverpool manager was appointed on a four-year contract after Nagelsmann resigned following Germany’s early Round of 32 elimination from the World Cup against Paraguay, and Klopp has now made clear that he is not afraid to walk away. Klopp on Germany’s level compared to France It was the expected matchup for the Round of 16 when the groups were completed. Seeing Germany in front of France was huge even that early, until Paraguay changed that. Germany lost in the penalties (Robert Cianflone/Getty Images) With France being among the best teams, it was normal to ask the manager about where he sees his team compared to a powerful side that has been full of talent, as Klopp admitted there is a difference. Klopp said: “When we ask in Germany: are we as good as France? And the answer is no, that’s not true. The question should be: do we have players like Dembélé, Mbappé, Doué, Barcola? The answer is no. But we still can beat them. It’s not important to look at France, Spain, Argentina. The most important thing is to look at ourselves and how we play football.” Klopp’s Germany project The first match for the new manager comes against the Netherlands in the Nations League on September 24, with the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund coach expected to bring greater intensity and energy to the German national team. Klopp said: “This is the pinnacle, the absolute high point of my footballing career as a coach. I will give everything I have got. For many, many years it was unimaginable for me to assume this position. As the years went by, it became more or less evident that sooner or later I would be asked to do this job.”
Why isn’t Ousmane Dembélé starting for France against England at the 2026 World Cup?
The final match of the 2026 World Cup for France against England does not include Ousmane Dembélé. With the dream of lifting the 2026 World Cup trophy no longer within reach, France are playing England in the third-place match, but Ousmane Dembélé is not in the starting lineup. The reason Dembélé isn’t starting against England is because Didier Deschamps has made a technical decision to put Desiré Doué and Rayan Cherki in the starting lineup. This means the ideal trio is not complete in the lineup for the first time in the competition. Leaving the Ballon d’Or winner out may be a decision to give him some rest after an exhausting season with his club. The attack Left winger was the position that has changed the most during the competition. Deschamps has rotated Doué and Barcolá depending on the opponent, which also helped keep them rested as they had to make a huge effort, with the other three attackers doing a bit less defensive work. Doué plays his eighth match (Lars Baron/Getty Images) The bench has become very important with the introduction of more substitutions, a change that has allowed the best teams to avoid exhausting their most-used players, and this has been reflected in how Deschamps has managed the position. For this match, what was a surprise for most was the inclusion of Cherki. The talented player was not a major factor for the team throughout the competition, even though he played in six matches with a total of just 85 minutes. Dembélé’s performance Dembélé’s performances went from the best to not as good as the tournament progressed. The winger had a fantastic start, scoring his first goals in a World Cup during his third appearance in the competition with five goals. His goals came against Iraq, a hat trick against Norway and one goal against Morocco.
Ousmane Dembélé reportedly fueled ‘tensions’ within France by criticizing their lack of pressing vs Spain
Amid France's defeat to Spain, Ousmane Dembélé reportedly decided to criticize the way his teammates were pressing. Far from solving the problems, the Les Bleus dressing room did not receive his comments well. Despite France arriving as the clear favorite, they failed to impose their attacking brilliance against Spain. Unlike previous matches, they were overshadowed, being dominated by their opponents. Therefore, Didier Deschamps’ team were defeated 2-0, leaving them out of the title race. Seeking to solve the problems, Ousmane Dembélé reportedly tried to correct the team’s pressing, resulting in tensions inside the dressing room. According to L’Équipe, Ousmane Dembélé spoke in the France dressing room at halftime. In an attempt to turn the game around, he strongly criticized the way his teammates were pressing. He emphasized that they were uncoordinated, something that greatly annoyed his teammates. They considered the criticism unjustified, as the 29-year-old star was also having problems in that aspect. Dembélé has been one of France’s best leaders in recent years. Contributing with his collective play, he has been one of the team’s standout performers. However, he did not have his best match against Spain, failing to create space in the defense or drive the team’s collective play. As the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, his performance was far from brilliant, causing his team to remain without a clear attacking presence. While Dembele is in the eye of the storm over his alleged criticism, his performance was not to blame for France’s defeat. Facing a team that was brilliant collectively, they were outplayed. Players such as Adrien Rabiot, Kylian Mbappé, and Lucas Digne looked clearly inferior, making mistakes and failing to be effective. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup third-place match, head coach Didier Deschamps may need to make some adjustments. Ousmane Dembele #7 of France crosses the ball against Alex Baena #15 of Spain. Ousmane Dembélé’s advice could be key for France vs. England Didier Deschamps has not achieved his objective with France at the 2026 World Cup. Although they entered the tournament as top contenders, they never managed to shine as a solid collective team. Instead, they were a group of stars who stepped up in key moments. Because of this, Dembélé’s reported advice could be the key for Les Bleus as they pursue victory against England in the third-place match. If France manage to organize their pressing after losing possession, England could be significantly limited on the counterattack. With this step, they would immediately improve their collective play. Therefore, the head coach could make some changes in midfield and even in defense. Because of this, Ousmane Dembélé has acted as a natural leader of the team, speaking truths that may be uncomfortable but necessary for the team.
Where did it go wrong for France against Spain – and what comes next?
Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé blew teams away in the early rounds of the World Cup but France had no answers when faced with Spain’s tactical superiorityBy Get French Football NewsFor the last few weeks, France had seemed destined to reach their third straight World Cup final, but in the end they were overrun by a more tactically coherent Spain team in the semi-finals. Once France went behind to Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty in the 22nd minute – the first time they had trailed in the tournament – Didier Deschamps’ side never looked like mounting a comeback. There would be no bolt from the blue from Kylian Mbappé, with the match instead plodding along to its logical conclusion. Where did it go wrong and what will come next? Continue reading...
Spain show teamwork may win out in 'World Cup of superstars'
France's attacking firepower was the focus of the build-up to their World Cup semi-final against Spain. If it wasn't Kylian Mbappe who did the damage, it would surely be Ousmane Dembele. Or Michael Olise. Or Bradley Barcola. Or Desire Doue.
France prepares for World Cup semifinal against Spain
In Dallas, football fans are gearing up for one of the World Cup's most keenly anticipated fixtures. The semifinal between France and Spain will see two of the tournament's best teams clash on Tuesday, with French stars such as Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé contending with a Spanish defence that has only conceded one goal all tournament. Fans of both Les Bleus and La Roja are hopeful they can just pip the other to a spot in Sunday's final. Story by Camille Corcoran.
Report: Aurelien Tchouameni set to start for France vs Spain, leaving Manu Koné on bench
In France's most recent victory over Morocco, head coach Didier Deschamps decided to start Manu Koné in midfield. Despite his impressive performance, Aurélien Tchouaméni is reportedly expected to return to the starting lineup. Maintaining an attacking approach, France have remained one of the top contenders at the 2026 World Cup. To defeat Morocco in the quarterfinals, head coach Didier Deschamps decided to make a change in midfield, opting for Manu Koné alongside Adrien Rabiot. Although he emerged as one of the team’s best players, he could return to the bench. Aurélien Tchouaméni is reportedly expected to return to the starting lineup against Spain. According to L’Equipe, Didier Deschamps has decided to bring Tchouaméni back into the lineup. During a training session before facing Paraguay, he was diagnosed with a minor muscle injury, leaving him out of the previous two games. Even if Koné performed very well in midfield, head coach believes that Aurélien can provide more balance in midfield, as he has already been fully recovered. While Aurélien Tchouaméni was not coming off his best season with Real Madrid, he established as a starter for France throughout the 2026 World Cup. Without being the team’s most eye-catching player, he has managed to be key in the high press, controlling the tempo of the game. In addition, he has developed a strong understanding with Adrien Rabiot, who plays more as a box-to-box midfielder, moving with freedom while remaining solid defensively. Report: Deschamps makes little changes to France’s starting XI vs Spain France will face Spain in the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. After Tchouaméni returned to full fitness, they no longer have any absences in the roster, as Kylian Mbappé’s physical issues are not considered serious. As a result, head coach Didier Deschamps has reportedly decided to stick with his tactical approach, making only one change by bringing Aurélien back into midfield, as he looks to lead France to a third consecutive World Cup final. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates with teammates after scoring In case of keeping a similar lineup, Les Bleus could lineup as follows: Mike Maignan, Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Digne; Aurelien Tchouameni, Adrien Rabiot; Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Desiré Doué; Kylian Mbappé. France’s path to beating Spain may start in the midfield Spain are one of the most dominant teams at the 2026 World Cup. Not only do they possess outstanding goalscoring quality, but their midfield also controls the tempo of the game. Because of this, France will have greater difficulty imposing their style of play, as Spain will approach the match offensively. With that in mind, Didier Deschamps will need to dominate the opposition’s midfield in order to pursue victory. If France manage to control the midfield, they would force Spain to play in transition. Without their wingers at their best, Luis de la Fuente’s team would lose the strongest part of their game: their collective build-up play. As a result, Rabiot and Tchouaméni need to be at their best, but Ousmane Dembélé will also need to contribute in order to put their opponent to sleep and control the game.
Spain’s Pau Cubarsí revels ‘no fear’ over facing Kylian Mbappé in 2026 World Cup semifinal
After shining against Belgium, Spain secured their place in the 2026 World Cup semifinals, where they will face France. Ahead of the match, young defender Pau Cubarsí revealed that he is not afraid of facing Kylian Mbappé, while analyzing their upcoming showdown. Spain have remained highly competitive throughout the 2026 World Cup, conceding just one goal in the entire tournament. After their recent victory over Belgium, they secured a place in the semifinals, where they will face France. While many fans have serious doubts about their chances of winning the matchup, Pau Cubarsí revealed that he is not afraid of facing Kylian Mbappé, while analyzing their upcoming encounter. Despite being only 19 years old, Pau Cubarsi already has considerable experience at the top level in Europe. Showing confidence in his talent, he remains confident ahead of his matchup against Kylian Mbappé. “Not scare us, no, but everyone knows the qualities he has. Even if he’s not involved in the game, he can change it with one quick play. He’s unique, just like Lamine. We have to stay alert for the full 90 minutes,“ he said in an interview with Diario AS. Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Cubarsí has remained an undisputed starter for head coach Luis de la Fuente. While Pedri, Lamine, and others have received the praise, the young defender has been key to stopping opponents’ progressions and preventing the team from conceding many goals. Moreover, he has already faced Mbappé on several occasions, proving that it is not impossible to stop his goalscoring progression. Kylian Mbappé is in outstanding goalscoring form, having scored eight goals in six matches, making him the tournament’s top scorer alongside Lionel Messi. With that in mind, Pau Cubarsí faces the toughest challenge of the tournament: Stopping his outstanding form. As Mbappé is a very physical striker, the young defender will need a collective strategy, as Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Désiré Doué also pose a clear threat in France. Kylian Mbappe of France shoots during the UEFA Nations League 2025. Spain hold the edge over France in recent encounters France have established one of the most competitive sporting projects in the world. Head coach Didier Deschamps has opted for a deep attacking unit, something similar to Luis Enrique’s PSG. Even though they have dominated soccer in recent years, Spain have been one of the few national teams capable of competing with them. In their most recent meetings, Spain have come out on top. The last meeting between Spain and France took place on June 5, 2025, in the UEFA Nations League. There, Luis de la Fuente’s team secured a 5-4 victory, advancing to the tournament final. Before that match, they had faced each other in the semifinals of UEFA Euro 2024, where Spain also defeated France and went on to win the tournament. With that in mind, Pau Cubarsí has one thing clear: they already know how to beat France, so there is no fear.
World Cup 2026 power rankings: who leads the pack as semi-finals loom?
We assess the teams who played in the last eight as the business end of the tournament approachesDidier Deschamps has seen it all before and certainly does not fear even the lowest of blocks. It is clear everyone is afraid of Les Bleus, which is understandable, and they are using it to their advantage. It is admirable how teams keep France quiet for lengthy periods but the game is too long to completely silence Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Against Morocco an hour of patience was required but these forwards are used to it and Mbappé produced the magic that has powered this run, following it up with an assist. In a tournament defined by individuals, France have the best of a talented bunch. Continue reading...
World Cup 2026: Four Quarterfinals, Four Different Stories – Two Semifinals Worthy of a Final
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has finally reached the point where every remaining team can realistically envision lifting the trophy. The quarterfinals delivered exactly what football’s biggest tournament promises: heavyweight clashes, late drama, underdog resistance, individual brilliance, and moments that will linger long after the competition ends. When the dust settled, four giants remained: France, […] The post World Cup 2026: Four Quarterfinals, Four Different Stories – Two Semifinals Worthy of a Final appeared first on SoccerNews.
Kylian Mbappe reaches incredible 56-year-old World Cup milestone not seen since Gerd Muller in 1970
Mbappe’s latest achievement has created another historic chapter in his career, proving once again that he continues to rewrite the standards expected from a modern World Cup forward. Kylian Mbappe and Gerd Muller have been linked through World Cup history after the France superstar reached a milestone that places him among the greatest performers the tournament has ever seen. Mbappe’s latest achievement has created another historic chapter in his career, proving once again that he continues to rewrite the standards expected from a modern World Cup forward. The Real Madrid attacker has already built a remarkable tournament legacy, but his latest performance for France against Morocco showed why he belongs in conversations with legends from previous generations. With the biggest matches still ahead, the 27-year-old has placed himself within reach of records that have stood untouched for decades. Les Bleus continued their pursuit of another World Cup trophy after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals. Mbappe played a decisive role in the victory, scoring one goal and creating another as France secured a place in the semifinals for the third consecutive tournament. The forward endured a dramatic evening after missing a first-half penalty opportunity, but he quickly responded when it mattered most. Mbappe found the net after the missed spot kick before assisting Ousmane Dembele shortly afterward, completing another influential performance on the biggest stage. The result also moved him closer to Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the World Cup’s all-time scoring record. Messi currently leads the historic ranking with 21 goals, while Mbappe has continued closing the gap during his third World Cup appearance. RankPlayerNational TeamGoalsAssists1.Kylian MbappeFrance832.Lionel MessiArgentina813.Erling HaalandNorway704.Harry KaneEngland615.Ousmane DembeleFrance52 The record-breaking World Cup achievement revealed Mbappe’s performance against Morocco helped him reach a historic mark that had not been achieved since Germany legend Gerd Muller dominated the 1970 tournament. According to Opta’sstatistics, Mbappe has recorded 11 direct goal involvements at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with eight goals and three assists. That makes him the first player since Muller in 1970 to reach at least 11 combined goals and assists in a single World Cup campaign. 11 – 🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé has been involved in 11 goals at the 2026 World Cup (8 goals, 3 assists).That's the most by a player in a single edition since 🇩🇪 Gerd Müller in 1970 (10 goals, 3 assists).Productive. pic.twitter.com/sJ6P4jU2dL— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 9, 2026 Muller produced one of the greatest individual tournaments in history during the 1970 World Cup, scoring 10 goals and adding three assists for West Germany. Mbappe’s current numbers match that legendary level of influence more than five decades later. Before Muller’s achievement, France icon Just Fontaine delivered the most extraordinary scoring tournament ever recorded, scoring 13 goals at the 1958 World Cup. Fontaine’s record remains the highest single-tournament goal tally in World Cup history. Mbappe creates history with consistent World Cup excellence The French superstar’s latest milestone adds another achievement to an already impressive World Cup résumé. Mbappe has now also become the first player in World Cup history to score at least eight goals in two different tournaments. The 27-year-old scored eight goals during France’s run to the 2022 final and has matched that total during the 2026 competition. Before Mbappe, only a small group of players had managed to score eight or more goals in a single World Cup. 10 – 🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappe has registered 10 goal involvements in each of his last two FIFA World Cups – he's only the only player on record since 1966 to achieve this in two different tournaments.8 goals, 2 assists in 20228 goals, 2 assists in 2026Symmetry. pic.twitter.com/VOA7lHDt5C— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 9,
World Cup Recap: France Sweeps Past Morocco to Semis; Spain vs. Belgium Previewed
Dan Riccio and Blake Price recap France's 2-0 quarterfinal win over Morocco and preview a massive Spain vs. Belgium clash on The 90th Minute. The tournament field is thinning out as the business end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup arrives. On the latest matchday edition of The 90th Minute, co-hosts Dan Riccio and Blake Price unpack a monumental result out of Boston and preview the remaining paths to global glory. Listen to the full tactical review on Spotify to catch up on the entire tournament breakdown. The show leads with an analytical review of France’s convincing 2-0 quarterfinal masterclass over Morocco. Didier Deschamps’ clinical side proved exactly why they are heavily favored to claim the trophy, shutting out a resilient Moroccan outfit. Despite an early first-half penalty miss by Kylian Mbappé, the French captain made history in the second half by hammering home his eighth goal of the tournament, taking his total 2026 tournament contributions to an astonishing 11. Ousmane Dembélé quickly added a second-half insurance goal to book Les Bleus’ ticket to a third consecutive World Cup Semifinal. The hosts dissect the game’s tactical shapes, a contentious handball incident involving Mbappé, and debate whether this current roster represents the greatest national team ever assembled. The focus then shifts entirely to the impending blockbuster tie between Spain and Belgium in Los Angeles. The duo previews the crucial tactical elements, questioning if Spain’s possession-heavy framework and depth can suffocated a red-hot Belgian team. The discussion dives deep into whether this is finally the summer where the remnants of Belgium’s Golden Generation, led by Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, push all the way to a historic final. The program winds down with score predictions for the remaining high-stakes final-eight fixtures. The hosts look at Erling Haaland’s lethal form with Norway ahead of their clash with England, evaluate Rudi Garcia’s tactical impact, and map out the margins separating Lionel Messi’s Argentina from a stubborn Switzerland side.You can stream the entire daily overview right now. Check out The 90th Minute on Spotify to stay entirely up to date on final scores, updated bracket configurations, and expert knockout coverage.