Giroud recalls Mbappé’s instant impact for France
Former Olivier Giroud has opened up on the stunning international emergence of Kylian Mbappé, revealing how the forward’s raw talent was evident from his very first tournament with France. In a recent interview with FourFourTwo, Giroud—who led the line as France stormed to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup—painted a vivid picture of a teenager who took the global stage by storm and proved decisive when it mattered most.
“From his first tournament, Kylian Mbappe’s talent was so clear. He had such a huge impact on the team that summer and was decisive in the final,” Giroud said.
Mbappé, now a talisman at Real Madrid, was just 19 when he tormented defences in Russia, scoring four goals—including a sensational strike in the 4-2 final win over Croatia—and becoming the first teenager since Pelé to net in a World Cup final. Giroud, who didn’t find the back of the net himself during the tournament, was quick to highlight how the young star’s movement, pace and composure complemented his own selfless hold-up play.
A partnership built on contrast and trust
While Giroud’s physical presence and aerial ability drew defenders, it was Mbappé’s explosive acceleration that consistently turned half-chances into goals. The chemistry between the veteran target man and the electric winger was a cornerstone of Didier Deschamps’ tactical setup, allowing France to transition from defence to attack in the blink of an eye.
“We understood each other from day one,” Giroud added. “I knew exactly where he would be, and he trusted me to win the first ball. That mutual understanding made us very dangerous.”
Mbappé’s performances earned him the FIFA Young Player Award, and his stock soared overnight. The world took note, and within a year he had completed a blockbuster move to Paris Saint-Germain, eventually landing at the Santiago Bernabéu to cement his status as a generational talent.
A legacy cemented in Russian soil
The 2018 World Cup final was the ultimate showcase of Mbappé’s big-game mentality. After an own goal and a penalty had put France ahead, Mbappé’s long-range thunderbolt in the 65th minute effectively sealed the trophy. It was a moment that announced the arrival of football’s new superstar—and Giroud was at the heart of the celebration, embracing his young teammate in a scene that symbolised the passing of the torch.
“Kylian was fearless,” Giroud recalled. “He didn’t just want to be a part of the team; he wanted to be the difference. And he was.”
Eight years on, Mbappé continues to rewrite the record books for club and country, while Giroud—now plying his trade in MLS—looks back on that Russian summer with nothing but pride. Their partnership remains a masterclass in how different skill sets can combine to create something truly special on football’s biggest stage.
Key Takeaways
- Olivier Giroud says Kylian Mbappé’s natural talent and decisive impact were obvious from his debut World Cup in 2018.
- Mbappé scored four goals at Russia 2018, including a vital strike in the final, becoming the first teen since Pelé to achieve that feat.
- The Giroud-Mbappé partnership thrived on contrasting strengths—physical hold-up play versus raw pace and finishing.
- Mbappé’s 2018 performances laid the foundation for a career that would see him become the world’s most valuable player and a Real Madrid icon.
- Giroud’s unselfish role was crucial in creating space and opportunities for his young strike partner throughout the tournament.
Quick Facts
Player: Kylian Mbappé
Tournament: 2018 FIFA World Cup, Russia
Goals: 4 (including one in the final)
Age at final: 19 years, 207 days
Award: FIFA Young Player Award
Giroud’s contribution: 0 goals, but 2 assists and key hold-up play
