The landscape of the France team could still change in the months to come.
Throughout time, major international tournaments have been bookmarks in the history of selections. As if they were announcing a new chapter to come. The World Cup in Russia marked the farewell of Blaise Matuidi. The Qatar World Cup led to the international retirements of Hugo Lloris, Raphaël Varane and Karim Benzema. Euro 2024 will be no exception to the rule.
This Saturday, the city of Hamburg was the scene of the draw for the competition. The Blues inherited an affordable group with the Netherlands, Austria and a play-off player. But during the evening, one speech did not go unnoticed. It is Olivier Giroud who made a very strong announcement for his future.
“I have always said that competition makes you progress and that it allows you to get the best out of yourself so that the team benefits, explained the top scorer in the history of the France team (56 goals). I continue to think the same thing and I am convinced that the France team is lucky to have attackers with different qualities. (…) I am available to the collective and I hope once again to play my role and supervise the youngest. I can’t wait to be there, to finish the season well with Milan to apply, to arrive in good shape. (…) If we win it, I will bow out with the French team.”
A future headache for Deschamps?
Although the reservoir remains substantial in attack, the withdrawal of Olivier Giroud would radically change the landscape of the Blues. A respected executive off the field, the AC Milan striker is one of the last dinosaurs of the France group, alongside Antoine Griezmann.
On the green rectangle, the identity of his successor is not yet clear. Marcus Thuram or Randal Kolo Muani had the opportunity to shine in this position, with uncertain success. New emerging talents like Elye Wahi or Mathys Tel must confirm their promises at the highest level. The new Giroud has not yet arrived… It remains to be seen whether the goleador, eternal lover of the Blues and admirable in his tenacity, will really keep his word in the event of a coronation.
