Speaking at a press conference, Didier Deschamps provided an update on Bradley Barcola (22), the Paris Saint-Germain forward. The France national team coach sought to reassure fans after an intense run of games for the young player, who featured in six matches over fifteen days with PSG before joining the national team at Clairefontaine.
Didier Deschamps: “He’s feeling good.”
“He’s doing fine. Earlier this year, he was in good shape with us but playing less for his club. Now, he’s had six matches in fifteen days, and that kind of workload takes a toll. He didn’t play against Lyon. He’s feeling good and in good spirits. The heavy schedule leads to fatigue, and that’s the case for almost everyone in the squad. Bradley’s fine — there’s no particular concern.”
Tired, but not worn out — that’s essentially the message from Deschamps. The coach explained that Barcola has experienced a significant physical load in recent weeks, though there’s no reason for alarm. After a period earlier in the season when he was getting limited minutes at PSG, the former Lyon player has worked his way into Luis Enrique’s rotation, starting more frequently — in part due to a series of injuries in the Paris attack.
Rested during the trip to Lyon, Barcola used the break to recharge his batteries. Deschamps’ measured tone reflects his awareness of how to manage the progression of a young player still growing in maturity — one who’s become increasingly important for both Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team.
