The ticket for the 2026 World Cup is in your pocket, the atmosphere is relaxing. The trip to Azerbaijan this Sunday has all the makings of an end-of-year match, with no accounting issues, ideal for launching the youngsters and testing. Didier Deschamps also confirmed that he would carry out a very large rotation, leaving several executives to rest. However, behind the appearance of a simple staff review hides a strong decision. One of the starters for the match against Ukraine, expected to be one of the leaders of this new wave, is preparing to pay a high price for a performance which has greatly annoyed internally.
Cherki, a soloist who irritated the coach
This player is Rayan Cherki. Aligned as playmaker against Ukraine (4-0), the Manchester City player went through the match like a shadow, but above all exasperated with his attitude. His choices, considered too individualistic, his superfluous gestures and his tendency to slow down the game were singled out. A “soloist” attitude which goes against all the principles of Didier Deschamps. Jérôme Rothen’s analysis on RMC was scathing:
“He doesn’t care about the world, he played to amuse the gallery.” A harsh criticism which seems shared even within the Blues staff.
The sanction was not long in coming. It is discreet, masked by the context of general turnover, but it is very real. For the match in Baku, Rayan Cherki should simply be relegated to the substitutes’ bench. A scathing message sent by the coach: talent, as immense as it is, is not enough. The blue jersey requires an impeccable state of mind and total dedication to the team.
Akliouche takes advantage, the lesson is clear
In his place, it is Maghnes Akliouche who should have his chance, in a starting eleven which will have the appearance of a laboratory with the probable tenure of Chevalier, Gusto, Zaire-Emery, Khephren Thuram and even Ekitike. By taking Cherki out of the equation for this match, Deschamps is not just making a sporting choice, he is sending a lesson. He reminds us that the status in the French team is precarious and that every minute must be deserved, not only through performance, but also through attitude.
For Rayan Cherki, this is obviously not an end of rejection. But this public reframing sounds like a very serious warning. He has, as Rothen said, « burned a joker“. To hope to settle permanently with the Blues, he will have to prove that he has understood the message. Talent was never in question. It is now his ability to put him at the service of the team that will be scrutinized.
