Adrien Rabiot has said football is secondary after the loss of Didier Deschamps mother.
France coach Deschamps left the World Cup to head home after her passing last week.
He missed the 4-1 win over Norway as a result, but will be back for the last 32 tie against Sweden.
The squad have rallied around the 2018 world champion, and Rabiot was the first to speak to the media in a official capacity since.
France squad in shock
“When he told us that his mother had passed away and that he had to leave us, it was a shock,” he said.
“Of course, he had our full confidence and we did the best job possible (against Norway).
“It’s not fair that he has to go through mourning in this situation, but that’s football.”
Speaking of Deschamps current state, he added: “He has returned eager to do his best in the tournament.
“This will also allow him to put this personal situation aside; it will do him good.
“He was very affected, but he is trying not to affect the group and not to transmit anything negative to us. We want to support him; it’s what we can do.”
Rabiot also previewed the match against Sweden and confirmed France’s status as favourites.
“We know we are the favourites, but we don’t intend to rest on our laurels,” he said. “We can’t relax, we have to stay focused.
“We have prepared with great seriousness for the match against Sweden, they have good players, especially in the attacking line.”
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