Mike Maignan made his first appearance as France’s new starting goalkeeping last night and he kept a clean sheet thanks to his own exploits.
As Calciomercato.com report, only injuries have disrupted Maignan’s incredible form as he helped Milan win the Scudetto last season with the joint-best defensive record while he has also been decisive this season such as in London against Tottenham in the second leg of the round of 16 of the Champions League.
Maignan has only been lacking international consecration, which he achieved last night by saving a penalty from Memphis Depay in the 4-0 win for France against the Netherlands in a Euro 2024 qualifiers.
The 27-year-old made his first appearance for France back on 7 October 2020, taking over from Mandanda in a 7-1 win against Ukraine, but yesterday it was time for his first start as the official new number one.
Hugo Lloris is the man who passes him the gloves after his retirement, and he gave his blessing: “It’s time to give the others a chance and we know that Mike is destined to take my place. I wish him the best, to him and to the goalkeepers that will be there.”
Didier Deschamps has always trusted Lloris even in the face of criticism and while it will be difficult for Maignan to step into his shoes, the former Lille man is full of confidence. The ambitions of Pioli’s team in the league will depend a lot on ‘Magic Mike’, as will the quarter-finals against Napoli.
The confidence that comes from being a starter for his country will provide a further boost, and will of course put Maignan in the discussion with the likes of Alisson and Courtois for the best goalkeeper in the world.
