Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has given a wide-ranging and extensive interview to French daily newspaper Le Telegramme during his summer break.
The 21-year-old returned to his home to see family and friends following France's elimination from the U-21 European Championships last week.
Leeds No. 1 took to the field for his France U-21 debut but came away empty-handed, defeated 2-1 by a last-gasp Myron Boadu winner which sealed the Netherlands' passage to the semi-final.
Meslier spoke at length about what it meant to represent his country, as well as his adaptation to life in Leeds.
He shared stories of being approached in the street, and ogled for his height, as well as applauding the Leeds United support - even if he says he doesn't understand the songs.
Speaking this past week, Meslier said : "It's a breath of fresh air, it's true that I miss the sea, family, friends, it's a balance. I had not been able to come back [to Merlevenez] since last October. My parents came [to Leeds] for Christmas. I am here since Tuesday to spend my vacations.
"It's a special club because of its history. It's a bit like Saint-Etienne and Lens back home. There is an exceptional atmosphere in the stadium, with great supporters who like to make noises and sing songs - which I don't understand - but there are no insults in England. It's a crazy atmosphere like in Liverpool, Manchester, it gives you the shivers," the Frenchman added.
Towards the end of his conversation with Le Telegramme, Meslier was asked about transfer links to Paris Saint-Germain.
"I cannot say anything about it," he replied - which struck a different chord with his previously open and forthcoming responses.
His agent Yvon Pouliquen interjected on Meslier's behalf, confirming PSG's interest but reiterated he is fully focused on representing Leeds.
However, one major decision has already been taken regarding Meslier's future - and it concerns his role with the French national side.
This summer, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are to be held, one year after they were initially scheduled.
Countries are permitted to take football teams to the Games, provided they are U-23 sides, with few older exceptions in their squads.
Given Meslier's recent elevation to prominence in the French goalkeeping conversation, it would have been likely that he would feature at the Olympics.
However, Leeds have prohibited the 21-year-old from appearing, on account of disrupting pre-season preparations.
"No, because Leeds is refusing," Meslier said in response to being asked if he was looking forward to featuring more at the Olympics.
"It's a very bad time because two days after the final, it's the Premier League again. I can't afford to be away a month before."
Understandably, Meslier cannot miss the beginning of the 2021/22 Premier League campaign for a relatively inconsequential international tournament.
While Marcelo Bielsa and Argentina took Olympic gold in Athens in 2004, Meslier will seemingly not be taking part with the French team this summer.
