Mateta: Making his debut for the French national team at the age of 28 proves that I did something right; being able to partner with Mbappe

Hupu reported on October 8 that French national team forward Philippe Mateta attended the pre-match press conference against Azerbaijan.

Talking about his debut in Clarefontaine and his idols in the Blues

"Everything went well, I saw the team, it was a great team, everyone got along well. I think there was more than one striker who left a mark on my childhood, including Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, David Trezeguet and so on."

Talking about the reason for making his debut in the national team at the age of 28?

"All efforts show that my efforts are in the right direction."

Talking about the 2026 World Cup goal

"This is just the first step, we have to enjoy the game, but of course this is the dream in my heart, and I will do my best to realize it."

What contribution does he think he can make to the national team?

"I am the tallest and one of the tallest players of my age. I think I will bring more fighting spirit on the front line and try to help the team win."

Talking about the impact of the 2024 Olympic Games

"I think this has a great impact, and the French public can get to know me. We often talk about it with people who were present at the time."

What do you think of Olise's performance?

"I played with him for a few seasons and he is a good guy. His technique is impressive, he plays smart and he always makes the right decisions. I followed him at Bayern and he performed very well and his French has improved."

Talking about the first official arrival at Clairefontaine

"The most difficult thing was the tricky induction ceremony. I sang Joe Dassin's "Champs Elysées", but it was not very successful because I kind of forgot the lyrics."

How did you feel at that time?

"I was with Maxence Lacroix at the time, and I was very happy when I heard the news. Many people contacted me, but I haven't replied to everyone yet."

Talking about his cooperation with Mbappe

"I am ready for everything, it depends on the coach's arrangements. I can partner with Mbappe, or I can be alone in the forward position."

Talking about the Olympic silver medal

"It's great to play in France. Although it was a little disappointing to lose in the final, I finally brought a medal back to the country."

Talking about the importance of being selected for the French national team

"Yes (this is the peak of my career). Yes."

Talking about Crystal Palace winning the FA Cup

"We made history. "

Talking about his future at Crystal Palace

"I think staying at Crystal Palace is the right choice. I'll keep working hard and see what happens next. "

On Manu Cone

"I started paying attention to him especially after the Olympics. I saw that he was still selected for the national team and I was happy for him. "

On his exchanges with Henry

"The French public already knows me. We often communicate with the head coach of the National Olympics, Thierry Henry. "

Talking about Florian Thauvin's return

"He has started the season well and I am happy for him. We took photos together. You can tell he's a good guy. "

Talking about what kind of results he hopes to get in the French national team?

"I am a very ambitious person. When I have an idea in my mind, I will do whatever it takes to realize it."