Olivier Giroud believes the France national team has “reconciled” with the public ahead of the World Cup.
Four years ago in South Africa, Les Bleus imploded, the players refusing to train after Nicolas Anelka was expelled from the squad. It caused shockwaves back in France, and led to sanctions against several players.
But an upturn in results has strengthened the relationship between the team and the public, and Giroud is confident of their support.
"We have shown them that we are better than one or two years ago. We have really reconciled with them because of our good results"
Olivier Giroud
“I am looking forward to the World Cup a lot,” he told Arsenal Player. “It will be amazing in Brazil and a really good opportunity for France to bounce back.
“We had a big disappointment at the last one but it is part of the past. Now we have a really good squad so we have a good chance.
“Yes [the fans still talk about the 1998 World Cup] because for the French people that will always be a fantastic memory. They’re expecting a lot from us.
“We have shown them that we are better than one or two years ago. We have really reconciled with them because of our good results.
“We had bad memories from the World Cup and the last Euros, but they are behind us and 1998 is the past - you have to look forward. We have the support of the French people, so that is a good thing for us.”
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