Gérald Baticle, coach of the French U21 team, was invited by L’Equipe to comment on Désiré Doué’s impressive resilience under pressure. He highlighted the approach of the 20-year-old Paris Saint-Germain and Les Bleus midfielder/forward.
Baticle: “There are no negative emotions in Désiré, no fear of the stakes.”
“There’s something pure in his approach. He knows where he wants to go, knows his path, gives himself the means, and when he arrives at a match, it’s a kind of accomplishment he experiences. There are no negative emotions in Désiré, no fear of the stakes; above all, there’s this obsession with the game. It’s in his DNA. There’s inevitably more excitement in big matches… But what I’ve always perceived in him is this quest for enjoyment.” “
It’s interesting to see this side of Doué, who often rises to the occasion in highly anticipated matches. There was definitely a sense that pressure doesn’t affect him, even if it’s always a bit of an exaggeration. He does feel something, but it’s more of a positive force.
The PSG number 14 is primarily driven by the desire to play these matches, to use his qualities to help his team win. No fear, no apprehension, simply the pleasure of being part of such moments. A philosophy that can be found in other great players and that can be seen in his sometimes very spectacular play. It’s therefore important not to forget the balance between teamwork and efficiency. Something Doué is currently managing particularly well. Let’s hope it continues.”
