SAMUEL UMTITI: “I’M AMBITIOUS AND THE FRENCH TEAM IS ALWAYS ON MY MIND”
Despite never receiving a senior call-up, Samuel Umtiti remains determined to break into the French national team. The Olympique Lyonnais defender, who captained the France U21 side during their Euro qualifier against Sweden, shared his ambitions in a recent interview with L’Équipe.
“I know what I want. I’m very ambitious, and for me, it’s always in the back of my mind,” said the 20-year-old center-back. “Work and consistency can get me into the French team. I wasn’t consistent enough last season—I know that. I had a few good spells, but it wasn’t enough. I can do much better.”
Umtiti is confident that continued dedication will eventually pay off:
“If I keep pushing, it will happen sooner or later. And I haven’t set myself a deadline yet.”
With fierce competition for spots in Didier Deschamps’ squad, the road ahead won’t be easy. However, a standout performance in Lyon’s high-stakes clash against Olympique de Marseille this Sunday evening could help Umtiti make a strong case for his first senior call-up—and edge closer to fulfilling his international dream.
