In an exclusive interview with Bet365, former France and Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit shared his thoughts on various football topics, including England’s performance under Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024, player dynamics, and potential transfer targets for top Premier League clubs.
Petit provided candid insights into the strengths and weaknesses of teams and players, drawing comparisons, and offering predictions for the tournament.
England’s Performance Under Southgate
- Description: Petit finds England boring under Southgate, similar to criticisms of the French national team. However, England finished first in their group and can still be positive.
- Improvement Needed: England must improve mentally and physically for knockout games.
- Responsibility: Southgate is responsible for tactics and team selection; the players must perform as a unit.
Harry Kane’s Role
- Dropping Kane: Petit doesn’t believe Kane is the problem and thinks Southgate won’t drop him. The issue lies in midfield, where there is a lack of connection between players.
Bellingham and Foden Comparison
- Lampard and Gerrard: Petit sees similarities between Bellingham-Foden and Lampard-Gerrard, noting potential issues with big egos and lack of team cohesion.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Adaptation
- Portugal: Ronaldo has adapted his game, becoming more team-focused and creating opportunities. He remains a key figure and a father-like presence in the team.
England’s Chances in Euro 2024
- Can Win: Despite a poor group stage, England can still win, similar to Portugal in 2016.
- Different Competition: The knockout stage is a different competition, and England finishing first in their group is a positive sign.
Favorite to Win Euro 2024
- Spain and Portugal: Petit is most impressed by Spain, followed by Portugal, citing their collective quality and individual talents.
Potential Transfers
- Manuel Ugarte to Manchester United: Ugarte would be a strong addition, offering mental and physical strength and defensive qualities.
- Arda Guler for Liverpool: Liverpool needs other players before considering Guler.
- Arsenal’s Targets: Petit suggests Nico Williams, Victor Osimhen, and Riccardo Calafiori for Arsenal, emphasizing the need for versatility and quality in multiple positions.
- Chelsea’s Situation: Chelsea should focus on selling players before buying more and should retain Conor Gallagher.
- Niclas Fullkrug for Manchester United: Petit respects Fullkrug but believes United needs a striker with more pace.
- Riccardo Calafiori’s Suitability: Calafiori would be a good fit for Arsenal, Chelsea, or Manchester United due to his versatility and strong attributes.
- Xavi Simons for Liverpool: Simons has quality but needs to show more character and responsibility.
- Casemiro for Arsenal: Petit feels Casemiro wouldn’t suit Arsenal due to the different physical demands of the Premier League.
- Marc Guehi’s Next Step: Guehi should leave Crystal Palace to continue his development, similar to Declan Rice’s move from West Ham.
Match Prediction: England vs. Netherlands
- Score Prediction: Petit predicts a 2-2 draw, leading to extra time and penalties, highlighting the competitive nature of both teams.
Markus Babbel was speaking exclusively as part of bet365’s Euro 2024Bet365 coverage.
