After a tasteless draw against Israel on Thursday evening (0-0), theFrench team will have an answer to give this Sunday, for its last match of the year. Concluding 2024 on a good note would not be a luxury, because this calendar year will not go down in the annals of Didier Deschamps.
For this, there is nothing like a shock against Italy, historic rival. But beyond aesthetic considerations, it is above all on an accounting level that the Blues will have a nice carrot, with first place in their group up for grabs. While qualification for the Final 8 is already assured, it will be necessary to win by two goals to win the Nazionale.
Koné and Nkunku holders?
To achieve this, Deschamps will not renew the same eleven as Thursday. Eduardo Camavinga is suspended after his warning against Israel, and the Real Madrid midfielder should be replaced by Adrien Rabiot. A choice which may surprise, considering the current state of form of the OM player, far from his best level.
But Rabiot is an important executive, and this team lacks leaders. Above all, he could be supported by the young Manu Koné. Up front, Christopher Nkunku could start after scoring points, just like Marcus Thuram. In central defense, William Saliba should make his return.
The expected line-up for the Blues : Maignan – Koundé, Konaté (c), Saliba, Digne – Koné, Rabiot – Olise, Nkunku, Coman – Thuram.
