As the old saying goes, the more you eat, the hungrier you get, and Manu Kone’s appetite may be stronger than ever as France prepare for their semi-final against Spain. After beginning the tournament among Didier Deschamps’ substitutes, the 25-year-old has featured in four of France's six matches, including starts in the Round of 16 and quarter-finals. Seizing the moment due to Aurelien Tchouameni’s injury, he has become a major presence in the middle of the park.
After making a strong impression in wins against Iraq and Norway during the group phase, the AS Roma midfielder stepped up another gear in the 1-0 win over Paraguay in the Round of 16, before putting in an excellent display against Morocco in a 2-0 quarter-final win.
Strong in the tackle, tireless across the turf, confident in possession and measured in his choices, the former Toulouse FC midfielder performed as though the biggest stage had always been his natural habitat.
“Of course, getting those starts gives you a taste for more,” the Colombes-born No6 told FIFA. “But the key thing for me is that the competition is healthy within the squad. It pushes us all to raise our level for the team. Everyone's trying to give the best version of themselves, which makes the team stronger.”
While France’s attacking quartet have understandably commanded much of the attention, the influence of Kone (or Tchouameni) alongside Adrien Rabiot should not be overlooked, with that midfield foundation giving their forwards the freedom to shine.
“They bring balance,” said France coach Didier Deschamps when questioned about his midfield anchors. “They're important in winning the ball back, especially when we press high up the pitch, and also in supplying our attacking players with the right service.”
Kone’s emergence at this level did not happen overnight. Before delivering commanding displays for Les Bleus and winning praise from Deschamps, he had first to navigate a steep learning curve. Much like Michael Olise, the midfielder came more prominently into view (and onto Deschamps’ radar) during France’s memorable Olympic campaign at Paris 2024 under Thierry Henry. Those performances helped open the door to his first senior caps in the UEFA Nations League.
“After I came on against Italy, in that 3-1 defeat at the start of September 2024, and got a booking, Didier Deschamps told me I needed to pick my battles carefully,” Kone recalled in Le Parisien. “Then, two minutes into the following match against Belgium, I went in for a reckless tackle, almost worthy of a red card. I said to myself: ‘Manu, that’s it. You’re off at half-time...’”
Kone, though, clearly took heed of his coach's message. Nearly two years on from his first senior appearance, the former Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder now finds himself firmly in the frame to start a World Cup semi-final against Spain.
A meeting with La Roja, and with Pau Cubarsi, also offers Kone the chance to settle a little unfinished business after France’s 5-3 extra-time defeat in the Olympic final. “Everyone wants to play, but there aren't places for everyone,” he said. “It's up to the coach to decide. I'll always be ready to give absolutely everything.”
Judging by his recent displays, that readiness is not in question and France have every reason to feel reassured. With Kone patrolling the midfield with presence and purpose, Les Bleus can continue to set their sights high and dream big.
Sources: FIFA Official
