DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Theo Hernandez wants to win the World Cup for France And for his older brother.
Lucas Hernández was crying when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee early in France’s 4-1 win against Australia In the past week. His brother Theo replaced him at left-back in a direct swap, even though they are different styles of players.
“His injury was very bad news for us. It’s not easy for him either, because it’s also a very long injury,” said Theo, 25, who is a year younger than his brother. “I have been talking to him on the phone every day since he left Qatar. I want to play every game here, because I want to return the trophy to him.”
The young Hernandez, who plays for Italian champions AC Milan, is more attack-minded than his brother and at times seems more of a winger than a defender.
At his press conference on Sunday, a Chinese journalist told him that his nickname among Chinese fans is “Supercar” because of his incredible speed.
“I prefer Ferrari,” he joked, smiling.
So it’s a dream for him to play on the left side of the French attack with Adrien Rabiot in midfield and Kylian Mbappe up front.
When he set up Mbappé for France’s winning goal in the 2-1 win against Denmark on Saturday, they hugged.
“We blend very well together and it’s a real pleasure,” Hernandez said. “When you have Kylian in front of you, things become easy. We get along very well on the pitch.”
It also brings a sharp focus to your game.
“I try not to miss any of my passes,” he said.
Manager Didier Deschamps has toured France in two games, dealing with a host of injuries take a new and more direct approach.
Despite the intention to attack, Hernández is aware of his place in the team and his defensive duties.
“I know I can’t push too much,” he said.
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