In a crucial match for qualification for the 2026 World Cup, all eyes are on the choices of Didier Deschamps. Faced with a cascade of injuries which decimated his group, particularly in the offensive and midfield sectors, the coach had to draw on his reserves and show imagination. But no one expected such audacity. Far from a simple adjustment, it is a small revolution that the boss of the Blues is preparing to put in place against Ukraine this Thursday evening. A starting eleven which risks causing a lot of ink to flow.
Cherki as conductor, Kanté as boss
The major surprise lies at the heart of the game. According to the trend that is emerging, Didier Deschamps would have decided to launch Rayan Cherki in the position of playmaker. A huge gamble for the former Lyonnais, who would be entrusted with the keys to the offensive animation of the Blues. To support him, two other new faces should occupy the wings: Michael Olise on the right and Bradley Barcola on the left, just behind the irremovable captain Kylian MbappĂ© at the forefront. In the middle, to compensate for the absences, it is the great return of N’Golo KantĂ© which is confirmed. He should form a unique duo with the power of Manu KonĂ©. Behind, the Maignan – KoundĂ©, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne defense remains more classic.
This composition, if it is confirmed, is the direct consequence of a real massacre. With the combined packages of AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni, Adrien Rabiot, Ousmane DembĂ©lĂ©, Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani, the solutions were limited. Deschamps therefore chose to trust the youth and validate the excellent impression left by N’Golo KantĂ© in training, he who “always smiles” and “maintains his level of performance” according to the coach.
One last jog before the revolution. In the calm of Clairefontaine, Didier Deschamps refines his team, where youth (Cherki, Olise, Barcola) and experience (Kanté) will have to combine to achieve qualification.
Youth in power, calculated risk-taking
This eleven is much more than a simple composition, it is a message. By starting players like Cherki, Olise, Barcola and Koné in a high-stakes match, Deschamps offers them a life-size test. It’s a huge mark of confidence, but also a colossal pressure on the shoulders of this new wave. The lack of automatisms and common experience at this level could be a risk against a Ukrainian team that is always difficult to maneuver.
But it’s also a great opportunity. That of seeing new solutions blossom and proving that the reservoir of French football is almost inexhaustible. The coach has often been described as pragmatic, even cautious. This Thursday, he could prove the opposite by banking on recklessness and pure talent to seek a qualification which extends its arms to the Blues. Will this bold gamble pay off? Answer this Thursday evening on the lawn of the Park.
