Ibrahima Konate has taken a swipe at those criticizing his France team-mate Kylian Mbappe’s captaincy credentials. 
France’s coach, Didier Deschamps announced on Tuesday, March 22, that Mbappe will be taking over from Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane who retired after the 2022 World Cup with a silver medal. While so many questions have been raised over whether Mbappe is deserving of the armband, Konate labeled his teammate’s critics as “crazy”, adding that he’s a very good leader, on and off the pitch. The Liverpool defender told Eurosport; “Even if I had a say in this, it would not change a thing. It’s the coach’s decision but I’m very happy. Honestly, Kylian deserves it. We’re unanimous on this. He deserves it with what he’s done at the World Cup and with PSG as well. 
“He’s a very good leader, on and off the pitch. He’s a young lad who loves to laugh and have fun, nothing more. He’s a very good person. Some may think he’s arrogant. It’s something I was asked about in my club and elsewhere. To them, I say ‘Are you crazy? He’s so nice.’ Of course, he will be a good skipper.” Also responding to claim of Atletico Madrid star, Antonio Griezmann who turned 32 on the day of the announcement, reacting badly to it, Konate added; “I did not see him sulking at all. Besides, it’s his birthday.“