France boss Fabien Galthié is "proud" that Italy counterpart Kieran Crowley has described Les Bleus as the 'team of the moment' ahead of the Six Nations.
However, like France, Ireland enjoyed a very strong November series and Galthié describes Andy Farrell's side as a "strong adversary" to his own.
"They have been on a very positive drive, undefeated since February 2021 and they defeated the All Blacks in November," said the France supremo.
"Their provinces have been at the top level in tournaments and they've been on a highly positive dynamic, their elite level teams and also the national team.
"They are a very strong adversary, a very strong team.
"Obviously we are very happy and very proud to be considered the team of the moment. It touches us and we find that very moving.
"But talking about Ireland, which will be our second game, they have a great ability to achieve wonderful things.
"They are also ahead of us in the IRB World Rankings, they're number four.
"Also, other teams have had great performances. Scotland, Wales won (the Six Nations) last year, England won it two years ago, and they all have great ability, great players and are highly competitive.
"They all have the ability to win this tournament."
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