Mike Maignan was a rare bright spot on the day France struggled against Austria.

It is no coincidence that Mike Maignan is expected to be a worthy successor to Hugo Lloris in the French national team's goal. Those close to him, from coaches to former teammates, believe that Maignan will have an impressive debut at EURO 2024.

The AC Milan star has been waiting for this moment for years. Since making his debut in 2019, the 1995-born goalkeeper has faced many challenges. However, Mike Maignan's performance against Austria proved that he is fully deserving of the official position in the French goal.

Mike Maignan is full of confidence ahead of his first match at EURO. Photo: Equipe de France de Football — Mike Maignan is confident ahead of his first match at a major tournament for France. Photo: Equipe de France de Football

Injuries and inconsistent form have raised questions over Maignan’s ability to compete in recent months, and from friendlies to the Euro 2024 opener, the 28-year-old has shown he is ready for a stellar performance.

In the 1-0 win over Austria, Maignan showed his ability to play with his feet effectively, helping France escape pressure from their opponents. However, his real highlight was his ability to get in and out of play.

With his physical strength and agility, Maignan dominated the space in front of the goal. Notably, in the 36th minute, the number 1 goalkeeper of the "Galorean Rooster" rushed out to block Christoph Baumgartner after Dayot Upamecano lost the ball. Just 2 minutes later, the French team scored the opening goal. This increased the importance of this save.

For Maignan, the biggest challenge is not only keeping a clean sheet but also taking on the role of defensive leader. In fact, the central defender duo Upamecano - Saliba have only played a few matches together. Maignan has constantly adjusted, even somewhat grumpily with his teammates to ensure synchronization in defense. In addition, his certainty in handling high balls has helped the French team maintain their position and have valuable rest periods.

In the second half, the AC Milan star continued to maintain his form with precise high ball handling, creating peace of mind for his teammates and maintaining France's advantage.

Mike Maignan has the ability to play with his feet flexibly and intelligently. Photo: Le Parisien

Maignan and his teammates will face a tougher test in the Netherlands in their next match, with long-range shots and a constant stream of high balls.

However, if Maignan continues to show the form he showed in the match against Austria, the 28-year-old goalkeeper will firmly consolidate his position in the French team's goal, completely dispelling any doubts about his ability.

In a competitive environment as high-pressure as EURO 2024, the ability to maintain spirit and form is extremely important. Maignan has overcome that pressure and become a solid support for Les Bleus.

Maignan’s performance in his first major tournament appearance was not only a personal delight, but also a positive sign for the French team as a whole. His confidence, leadership and skill have brought new life to the defence. With his current form, Maignan will surely be one of the key factors in helping France go far in the tournament.

Source: https://laodong.vn/bong-da-quoc-te/mike-maignan-la-diem-sang-raem-hoi-trong-ngay-tuyen-phap-chat-vat-truoc-ao-1354354.ldo