Blues: “I am in the best period of my career” says Marcus Thuram

In Clairefontaine

“I try to respond and make an impression each time (that he is selected). There is strong competition. I think the coach is spoiled for choice. I don't think there is any hierarchy as number 9, we have three or four profiles (Giroud, Kolo Muani, Mbappé) who can bring different things. The coach will make his choices. With Inter we aspire to win the championship, I am a starter, yes, I am in the best period of my career.

“This is my second season as number 9. I play as a striker at Inter, who am I to ask to play here or there for the France team? Where I have progressed the most in this position is in the tactical relationship with others, especially because I played as the only point last season. I often talk about it with Kylian (Mbappé), especially since we were young, and he told me that I would end up as a center forward. Today, I am settled in this position and I like it very well.”

“I just know that a player like Antoine cannot be replaced, he is one of a kind. At Atlético and in Blue. We have very good players in the French team to try to replace him.

“I know it's a great pride to play in the Olympics, afterwards, there is a coach who makes his list. I will not publicly apply to do them. If Henry calls on me, I will respond.”

“The French team always arrives at the right time, it was a complicated evening, it never feels good to be eliminated in the Champions League (by Atlético Madrid in the round of 16). We will focus on Serie A and the title. »

“Yes, I totally agree with Mike Maignan about leaving the field when something like that happens. This sends a signal. We have to bang our fists on the table to make things change.”

“It’s a gesture that shouldn’t be done, I had to avoid (he pinched the testicles of Stefan Savic, the Atlético Madrid defender). It ended well, fortunately.”

“He’s been my father for 26 years, we know that, you asked me every possible question about him (laughs). »