Tour in the United States, hand extended to Chevalier, White House… the responses of Didier Deschamps

The coach of the French national team, after revealing his list of 26 players, explained his choices to the media, ending with applause from part of the audience.

Why a list of 26

“I had the freedom to choose between 23 and 26 players, but due to two very close matches with a departure on Tuesday and the first match on Thursday, I decided to take 26. I do not know what could happen this weekend. It’s more complicated to make changes in the United States. We anticipated it, considering various options. I remain open and reflective (for the World Cup list) because my official list will be on the evening of May 13th. Out of 23 selections, there are 3 or 4 who do not play during a major international competition. With 26 players, there are advantages and disadvantages. I cannot see myself holding training sessions with 12 against 12, unless FIFA has changed the rules (smile). With three options per position, barring a catastrophe, it gives us opportunities.”

Substitute at PSG but called up for France, Chevalier’s situation

“His last match was in January, since then, he has been in a more difficult situation, without playing time. This has happened to me often with important players who could occasionally struggle at their club (Rabiot, Kolo Muani, Giroud) – extending a helping hand. This is part of building trust. I remember in the fall, for some, he was supposed to challenge Mike Maignan, maybe even start for the French team (smile). Only four months have passed. He has not lost his value during this period, even though the situation is not ideal for him. I have spoken with him. In March, he played a number 3 role (Brice Samba is number 2). What will the future hold for him? I do not know. Will the situation change? I hope for him. I am not putting pressure on Luis Enrique and PSG. It seemed important to me to include him in this gathering.”

The purpose of this American tour

“It is not ideal in terms of sports, but there are other factors to consider (Nike, sponsor of the French team, pushed for this tour), and as a coach, I must deal with them. We always have answers at each gathering. Even if the players called up today have already been to previous gatherings. This tour is not ideal, playing on Thursday (Brazil) and Sunday (Colombia), between Champions League matches. After this stage, there will be quarter-finals and it will be the home stretch with national titles and cups. The window is narrowing, but it will provide additional answers. Many are here today and will still be here in May. We will remain logical but without hasty conclusions. In the next two months, many things can happen, including injuries.”

The geopolitical situation in the United States

“The political situation is complicated, but it is not a taboo subject. We have questions and opinions on conflicts worldwide, and everyone has the freedom to respond or not. My players are citizens, facing everyday life, even while in the sports sphere. This does not prevent us from being aware of what is happening around us. I hope that the geopolitical situation between the USA and Iran does not affect the sporting situation. I do not have the answers. It creates concerns, certainly, it is not a peaceful climate, security is a priority. We cannot constantly think about where we are, as it is impossible to live in the moment, but we cannot ignore what is happening in the world. As French citizens, we feel concerned.”

If the French team received an invitation to the White House

“I have not received an invitation, I am not the one who would receive it. You should ask my president.”

The presence of Kylian Mbappé

“Considering he was in a protocol that was respected, nothing is impossible. He played 25 minutes on Tuesday against City. On Sunday, he has an important match against Atlético. In terms of injury, the protocol was respected, I have spoken with him regularly. There was no obligation for him to be present (during the French team’s tour), just for marketing. Of course, Kylian is Kylian, with a significant impact, which is part of his life as a footballer. He wanted to be here with us. But with two matches in three days and a time difference, it will lead me to give playing time to as many players as possible. Will Kylian be affected by rotation? Probably. After this weekend, we will see how he feels.”

The Non-selection of Bouaddi with Morocco

“Yes, I saw that he was not selected for Morocco. He has the freedom to make his choice. I am not here to take away that freedom from him. If I call him, it is because I consider it the right time for him to be useful to the French national team. We are following him, but there is strong competition. I have picked six midfielders and others could make the cut. It will be his choice. I will not anticipate what I will decide in May, and then someone else will have to decide because it will no longer be me.”

Context: The article covers the explanations provided by the coach of the French national football team regarding his selection of 26 players and various other related topics during a media interaction. There are references to specific players, upcoming matches, and the geopolitical situation affecting the team.

Fact Check: The content has been accurately translated into natural and readable English suitable for a news article while preserving the key details regarding the coach’s decisions and thoughts.