"No, it's not over" – Ex-Chelsea star N'Golo Kante teases return to Europe after strong start to Euro 2024
Ex-Chelsea star N'Golo Kante has suggested that he would be willing to finish his career in Europe following an excellent start to his UEFA Euro 2024 campaign with France.
Kante, who left Chelsea to join Al-Ittihad on a free transfer last July, has impressed with his steadfast performances for France at the Euro 2024. He has played in 180 minutes of action for them, helping them defeat Austria 1-0 and register a 0-0 draw against Netherlands so far.
At a pre-game press conference, the ex-Chelsea defensive midfielder was queried if his career in Europe is finished. He replied (h/t Metro):
"No, it's not over. I appreciate the feedback. In Saudi Arabia, it's new football, a new experience. Finding these feelings again with the French team is beautiful, it touches me, we want to do well. But that's not a question I'm asking myself today."
Kante, who helped France lift the 2018 FIFA World Cup, concluded:
"I feel good. Last season went well with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. We had a good preparation with the French team. At the moment, I feel good. I hope this continues. In any case, there are the players needed to replace me if ever there is a problem, but I want to continue, to give the maximum."
Kante, 33, enjoyed a fine debut campaign at Al-Ittihad in the 2023-24 season. The midfielder scored four goals in 44 matches for his team.
England manager Gareth Southgate urged to start Chelsea man in next Euro 2024 tie
Speaking to Metro, ex-England international Chris Sutton stated that Cole Palmer should be handed a start in England's Euro 2024 match against Slovenia on June 25. He opined:
"One thing which I have found quite baffling is the omission of Cole Palmer. I think given the season he had at Chelsea, it's quite baffling for him not to have been given any game time in the opening two games."
Sutton, who netted thrice in 39 games for the Blues in his career, said:
"I would play [Declan] Rice alongside Jude Bellingham because he can be a six or an eight or a 10 and I would find a way to get Cole Palmer into the team. If we're searching for that bit more creativity, then he's the perfect player to provide it."
Palmer, 22, has scored 25 goals and provided 15 assists in 45 overall outings for Chelsea since arriving from Manchester City past summer.
England, meanwhile, are atop Group C of the ongoing Euro 2024 with four points from two matches, scoring twice and conceding one goal.