Not selected by Didier Deschamps to play the Euro in Germany with the France team, Alexandre Lacazette will however spend the summer in blue. The Olympique Lyonnais striker, second top scorer of the season in Ligue 1 (19 goals), will try to bring his talent and experience to a French team which aims to win a gold medal at the Games Olympics played at home.
“There is no pressure but there is a little excitement to say that France has only won the Olympic Games once (in 1984), Lacazette confided this Wednesday in Clairefontaine during a press point where he was accompanied by his friend Wendie Renard, captain of the Bleues. I tell myself that it would be good if we were the ones to create the feat. It’s my last chance to win something with the French team, I really want to leave this competition with a lot of joy, therefore a medal. »
“I feel like a guest”
Alexandre Lacazette on his status within the France U23 team
The OL captain said that he arrived on tiptoe last week in this French Olympic team where he is the most experienced player at the age of 33. “I feel like a guest,” he assured in response to a question about his role in the group. The first week, I watched everyone, I tried to learn. I open up a little more because I am quite shy to begin with. I feel a little better in the group. They are very respectful.”
Thierry Henry, the coach, also tries to integrate him quickly and put him at ease by increasing the number of exchanges with the striker. “He talks to me a lot because I am not yet aware of all the tactics, he explains to me what he expects from the team and from me,” continued Lacazette. He speaks to me a little more than to some. »
“I try to enjoy every moment”
Alexandre Lacazette on preparing for the Olympics.
Despite the long season experienced with OL, testing on a psychological level as the team went from last place in the Championship after fourteen days to 6th, qualifying for Europe, on the final day, Lacazette ensures that he lacks neither physical nor mental freshness. “I had less vacation than usual but being able to play with the France team takes the edge off fatigue,” said the striker. I’m happy to be here, it’s a long preparation but I know we need it. I will have plenty of time to rest after or when I stop. I know it will prepare me well for my season given how we work. I spoke with the physical trainer who explained to me that it wasn’t just going to be a vacation and that we were still going to work well. I can confirm to you that he did not lie. We work very well. (the Olympics) It’s something I don’t know so it’s easy to be attracted, it’s something new, that I’ll only experience once in my life. I try to enjoy every moment. »
