France legend Frank Leboeuf has criticised Ousmane Dembele after his 'frustrating' performances at UEFA Euro 2024. This comes following Les Bleus' elimination in the semi-finals against Spain at Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday, July 9.
Dembele had a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign as he ended with no goal contributions. He only won the penalty in France's 1-1 draw against Poland in the group stages, which was converted by Kylian Mbappe. He often showed promise on the right wing but failed to create good chances.
After their 2-1 defeat against Spain in the semi-finals, LeBoeuf criticised Dembele, saying (via ESPNFC):
“[Dembele can be] 100 per cent [frustrating]. Because of the talent that he has it’s only frustration that can come out of it. It’s what I felt during the whole tournament. Every time I watch Dembele, I’m like ‘what a pity’.
“Every time he touches the ball you are very excited because the control is good, the pace is good [and you think] he’s going to do something special. Ah, what a pity.”
Dembele played 79 minutes in the Euro 2024 semi-final clash against Spain. He completed 20/25 passes and 1/2 dribble attempts, creating one big chance, and won 4/7 duels.
His form at the tournament was a reflection of his form at the club level last season. He registered just six goals and 14 assists in 42 games across competitions for Paris Saint-Germain.
Kylian Mbappe makes honest admission after France's Euro 2024 exit
Kylian Mbappe has often been the main man for France in major tournaments but failed to have a big impact at Euro 2024. He scored just one goal - a penalty against Poland - in five appearances. He also provided an assist in the semi-final against Spain.
After Les Bleus' exit from the tournament, the Real Madrid man said (via Fabrizio Romano):
“In football you’re good or not good. I wasn’t good. My Euro was a failure.
“I wanted to be European champion… I will now go on holiday, I will rest well, it will do me a lot of good, then I will get ready to start a new life. There's a lot to do."
Mbappe has scored 48 goals and provided 35 assists in 84 assists for France, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup.