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Manu Kone has become a mainstay in the Serie A, having come leaps and bounds at Roma. As the midfielder gets ready to play for France at the World Cup, he has opened up about the soaring temperatures and how Les Bleus are dealing with it.
The Frenchman spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport in a detailed interview and he was asked a host of things about the campaign, which starts next week.
When specifically speaking about the temperatures in the United States, Kone expressed some concerns. He also went on to reveal how the French camp is dealing with it.
โYes, because itโs really hot. Weโve been training in these conditions for the past few days and will continue to do so. The staff has developed a specific protocol with very cold drinks, water breaks, and constant monitoring of hydration. Weโre following everything professionally because we know itโs essential to perform at our best.โ
Kone appeared confident France will adapt, saying he is accustomed to warm temperatures in Italy.
โWeโll adapt, even though Iโve had to play at unusual times at Roma, like midday (the last derby). Our opponents, however, will have the same weather conditions as us.โ
Didier Deschamps side open their tournament with a game against Senegal.
Kone was asked about what people can expect from the tie.
โWinning the first match is always important, but it wonโt be easy because Senegal is a very strong team: they are the African champions, they are very high in the FIFA rankings, and they have many top-class players who play in the best European leagues. It wonโt be an easy match because they bring so much energy to the table, but we are confident in our abilities and we are working hard. We will be ready on Tuesday.โ
He also backed Kylian Mbappe to succeed, saying the attacker takes the pressure as something that is part of the sport.
โHeโs a champion who has always responded to the most important moments, both for his national team and his clubs. We know heโll be ready. Itโs a competition he loves and wants to win. We have full confidence in him. Heโs our captain, and weโre convinced heโll achieve great things. I have no doubts about that.โย
This is Koneโs first major tournament with France and he will hope to make a mark, with his Roma future uncertain.
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Kaustubh Pandey โ GIFN
