The French national team coach unveils his selection list on Thursday for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.
A new chapter is beginning for the French team. On Thursday at 2 pm, Didier Deschamps will appear one last time in front of the media at the headquarters of the French Football Federation to reveal his list of players for the upcoming tour in the United States (Brazil and Colombia, on March 26 and 29 in Boston and Washington). In May – during the second half of the month – he is expected to announce the chosen players for America in a different context. Without revealing any secrets, those absent in March will find it difficult to make the cut for the trip to the US. Even though there are exceptions, like N’Golo Kanté’s presence in the June list for Euro 2024 or Karim Benzema’s comeback just before Euro 2021.
Mbappé in the mix
For this final squad assessment before the big summer trip, Didier Deschamps is likely to call up a group of 25 or 26 players. Just like during the World Cup (June 11-July 19). Despite uncertainties and discussions between his club and the national team, Kylian Mbappé will be part of the team. Not only to represent the main sponsor (Nike) of the French team in the US but also to lead the French attack, especially against Brazil next Thursday, and probably against Colombia three days later. Returning to the field on Tuesday night with his club against Manchester City, the team captain looked in good shape. He will need to confirm this form on Sunday night against Atlético Madrid.
What about Kolo Muani and Thuram?
Up front, the usual players (Dembélé, Olise, Doucouté, Ekitike, Cherki, etc.) are expected to accompany Kylian Mbappé. With Bradley Barcola ruled out due to an ankle injury, this opens up a spot for players such as Akliouche, Thauvin, Nkunku, or Coman to seize the opportunity. Questions also arise for Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani, highly appreciated by Deschamps but not performing at their best. Hugo Ekitike’s season has put them under intense competition pressure. With an expanded squad, several players might make the trip to Boston on Tuesday. Jean-Philippe Mateta, returning from injury, seems unlikely to join.
A crowded midfield
In midfield, the core players (Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Kanté, Koné) will be accompanied by Eduardo Camavinga and Warren Zaire-Emery, who can also play as a right-back. Corentin Tolisso, despite struggling a bit with Lyon recently, still believes in his chances. His last call-up was on June 23, 2021, against Portugal. Other midfielders like Thuram, Guendouzi, and Fofana hope to make the trip as well.
Defensive concerns
In defense, Jules Koundé’s absence opens up a spot on the right, which could benefit Pierre Kalulu, who made his debut for Les Bleus in June against Spain. Barring any surprises, the other defenders (Gusto, Saliba, Upamecano, Konaté, L. Hernandez, T. Hernandez, Digne) are likely to be called up, each with varying levels of form.
Goalkeeper dilemma
The goalkeeper position, rarely discussed publicly, will be closely scrutinized on Thursday at 2 pm. Except for Mike Maignan, the situation of Lucas Chevalier, France’s number 2, stands out. Remaining on PSG’s bench since January 23, and surpassed by Matvei Safonov under Luis Enrique’s guidance, the former Lille player knows he is at risk. However, Deschamps, acknowledging the player’s quality, may extend an olive branch, as he has done throughout his tenure with struggling players. Brice Samba will likely be in contention. Alphonse Areola is not having the best time at West Ham. Meanwhile, the profiles of Jean Buttez (Brest) and Robin Risser (RC Lens) are being observed as potential alternatives.
[Context: The French national football team coach is revealing the squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.] [Fact Check: Highlights key players like Mbappé, discusses forward and midfield options, defensive lineup, and the goalkeeper situation.]
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