Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has told Ouest-France about his desire to become the No.1 for France’s senior team.
The France U21 international initially joined the Whites from FC Lorient on loan in 2019 and his stay there was made permanent a year later. He’s been the No.1 at Elland Road since 2020.
When the newspaper asked the Leeds player about his journey so far, the 23-year-old explained how his move to the English club took shape and wanting to represent Les Bleus.
“Of course. I know where I come from and what I have accomplished. I didn’t leave Lorient as I wanted [Lorient had recruited Paul Nardi as No.1 and Meslier didn’t want to be a backup]. It ended up being a blessing in disguise,” he said.
“I left a cocoon, I got out of my comfort zone, I had to work three times harder to impose myself at Leeds, where nobody knew me. Coming back to Brittany today with Les Bleuets (France U21s) jersey is something remarkable. But this is not the end. I want to climb the ladder again.”
Meslier is in contention to represent France at the UEFA European U21 Championship in the summer. His immediate focus is on helping Javi Gracia’s side avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Leeds are 14th in the table with 26 points and are two points ahead of 18th placed West Ham United, who have a game in hand. The bottom eight teams are separated by four points.
A decision on his future at the Premier League side would only be considered in the summer. He stressed this when asked about the claims about Chelsea and Manchester United interest.
“It would be a mistake to project oneself so far. There are many steps before that: a continuation to be sought with Leeds, the Euro Espoirs [U21 championship] in June,” Meslier explained.
“To succeed in all of this, I have to be good. Because no one will come looking for me if I am not. And if I am asked, I will take the time to think about my future with a clear head.”
