Brentford’s Neal Maupay has stirred the pot by mocking England’s iconic “It’s Coming Home” anthem, referencing the nation’s prolonged tournament drought.
The French striker, known for his knack for riling up the opposition, has targeted players like James Maddison this season. Now, he’s set his sights on the Three Lions ahead of Euro 2024, where Gareth Southgate aims to end a 58-year wait for a major tournament victory.
England’s only tournament win remains the 1966 World Cup, with several near misses in recent years. The Three Lions reached the final of the last Euros, only to lose on penalties to Italy at home. France knocked them out of the last World Cup in a quarter-final match in Qatar. Maupay is hoping for an England-France final in Germany this summer, but he jokes that England’s wait for a title will continue.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Maupay said, “England have had that slogan ‘It’s coming home’ for so many years and I tell them that it never will. We tease each other. It’d be nice to have an England-France final. After France wins, I’ll celebrate.”
Maupay enjoys taunting his rivals. Earlier this season, he imitated Maddison’s dart throw celebration after scoring and later responded on social media. “More goals and fewer relegations in my career than James Maddison.”
While Maupay won’t feature in a French squad heavily favored to win their first Euros since 2000, he continues to enjoy his role as an agitator. Didier Deschamps’ side, which lost in the World Cup final less than two years ago, are widely tipped to lift the trophy.
Jamie Carragher is among those skeptical of England’s chances against France. In an interview with the Telegraph, he stated, “I don’t see how England beat France. I know it was very tight the last time we played and I always just feel they’ve got that little bit [more].” He added, “I think England’s best team beats France’s best team at the toss of a coin. Some of the players who can’t get in the French team are winning Champions Leagues. They’re playing for some of the biggest clubs in the world and that’s my only feeling.”
As Euro 2024 approaches, Maupay’s comments add to the anticipation and rivalry. Keeping the spotlight on England’s quest for glory and France’s determination to dominate.
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