The French forward has emerged as a leading contender to win the prestigious individual award for his starring role in PSG's Champions League victory and his national team coach thinks he merits the prize ahead of Barcelona's teenage ace Lamine Yamal.

Speaking ahead of France's Nations League semi-final against Spain on Thursday (05.06.25), Deschamps said: "Of course I am for Ousmane, since he is French and with the season he is celebrating.

"Obviously, this Nations League can bring some elements of response, the Club World Cup too. If I have to choose, I tell you Ous, 100 per cent, of course.

"If you ask me about the Spaniards, I don't think they will tell you the same thing. But obviously, Ousmane, with the season he is having, deserves it."

Deschamps has a number of players who were involved in the Champions League final in his squad and has had to manage the emotions of those who experienced contrasting feelings after PSG thrashed Inter Milan 5-0.

He said: "They are here, so I am counting on them.

"I found them very happy on Monday (02.06.25) evening, of course, with a certain fatigue as well. Then, there were Benjamin (Pavard) and Marcus (Thuram) on the other side. The feelings and emotions were not the same.

"Ideally, when there is a peak like that, of course, you always have to come back down, but now, we need to quickly get back up because the match is close."

Deschamps also confirmed that Kylian Mbappe still has a key role in his plans despite a disappointing debut season at Real Madrid that saw the club go trophyless.

The manager said: "You know his season as well as I do. He is now in very good shape and with a much better footballing and physical potential.

"Nothing changes, Kylian will have a central position."