The French team's turn to return to school. Didier Deschamps has an appointment at 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Federation's headquarters to announce the list of players who will launch the qualifying campaign for the next World Cup. The Blues have two affordable games on paper, first in Poland to face Ukraine (September 5) and at the Parc des Princes to receive Iceland (September 9). The coach, who starts his last season on the tricolor bench, should make a first change compared to his last list. He plans a list of 23 players, and no longer for 25.
Two less places, and therefore two disappointed in addition. But the time is no longer for life -size tests, the objective is to shape a group capable of finishing in first place in this group from where Azerbaijan will be the last opponent. The Blues have six games to play to validate this ticket for North and central America and present themselves as the big favorites of this hen largely up to their height. In goals, there will be no surprise. Except in the event of a last -minute package, we will find the usual trio with Maignan in number, in front of Chevalier, the new number two, passed in front of Samba.
The Hernandez brothers in balance
Defense will experience profound changes with the many injured in the Final Four. The French team still conceded 5 goals in the semi-finals against Spain, an anomaly under the reign of Deschamps. Thus, Koundé, Saliba and Upamecano will be back, or 75% of the line holders. Lucas Digne has scored points and could even go ahead of Théo Hernandez, who left for Saudi Arabia. His presence is in balance with that of his brother, Lucas, who has the versatility of playing in the axis as in front of Germany. Konaté is off to a good start to be, in front of Kalulu and Pavard, while Badé is injured. Gusto should be called to the detriment of Clauss.
Taulier des Blues, Aurélien Tchouameni will obviously be present, most likely with the regulars of the last lists like Koné, Guendouzi and even Zaïre-Emery, despite a playing time always reduced to PSG. Great uncertainty remains around Adrien Rabiot. Holder in Rennes, the Marseillais was placed on the list of transfers after his altercation with Rowe. He will be lacking in rhythm but no training. If Deschamps ever decides to do without him for this rally, he could call Bouba Kamara, Youssouf Fofana, Kephren Thuram, forgotten since November 2023, or even bring down Rayan Cherki or desired gifted with a notch.
Kolo Muani or Ekitike?
Their presence in the middle or in attack are essential for the future because they condition the summons or not of other elements. They will be in September in the company of the faithful: Mbappé the captain, Dembélé, Barcola or Olise. Too rarely effective in selection, Marcus Thuram comes out of a double with Inter and is always expected at the turn. Finally, if there is ever a place, there are two possible choices: that of continuity with Kolo Muani. He is still at PSG despite the insistence of Juventus and has not played since the World Cup. Another option, that of innovation with Hugo Ekitike, very legs and already three times scorer for his beginnings in Liverpool.
