Olympic hopeful Maghnes Akliouche on Thierry Henry’s influence as France Under-21 coach - 'His words are gold'

Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche has praised Thierry Henry for his influence as the manager of France's Under-21 team, saying "his words are gold".

Henry has been in charge of the U21 side since August 2023, having previously been an assistant coach for Belgium’s senior team.

The former Arsenal forward will also manage the French team in the Under-23 football event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with Akliouche among those in with a chance of making the squad.

The 22-year-old has been enjoying a breakthrough campaign with Monaco, who are currently second in Ligue 1 and on track to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season.

"Both on and off the pitch, he gives me a lot of advice," Akliouche said of Henry to TNT Sports. "Thanks to his experience as a player and coach, his words are gold.

"You have to pay attention to them. When he says something to you, you pay attention because he never says just anything.

"He's also aware that young players need more attention and advice, so he helps us a lot. It's important to have that help."

France are among the favourites to win the Olympic men’s football tournament, particularly with a home crowd cheering them on.

Many of Henry’s U21 squad will be hoping to make the cut for the Games.

"It's a magnificent competition for a young player like me," Akliouche said. "It can be a milestone in my career. And it's in France, in Paris.

"If I get the chance to take part, I'll be the happiest person in the world. It's going to be memorable."

Henry will be restricted to selecting 18 players for his Olympic squad, along with four reserves. Among this squad, he is able to have three players over the age of 23, with Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe making it clear he would like to play at the Games.

But Mbappe’s seemingly imminent move from PSG to Real Madrid could put a spanner in the works, as could the 25-year-old’s inclusion in the France squad for Euro 2024 this summer.

Akliouche remains optimistic about Mbappe playing at the Games, saying: "It makes you salivate, that's for sure. He's one of the best players in the world.

"It would be a strength for us. He can give us so much, both in the dressing room and on the pitch. We're keeping a close eye on his situation."

The football event at the Olympics this summer will be held from July 24 to August 10.

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