Match day for the Blues. This Saturday at 11 p.m., in Miami, the France team faces England in the match for third place in the 2026 World Cup. Four days after their elimination in the semi-finals against Spain (0-2), Didier Deschamps’ men will try to end their adventure on a good note. For what will be the coach’s last match at the head of the Blues, a large turnover is expected.
Didier Deschamps planned to offer playing time to several players who are usually substitutes. But a new blow disrupted his plans. According to The TeamBrice Samba, injured in a calf, did not train this Friday with the group and will be forfeited to face the Three Lions. The guard thus joins William Saliba in the infirmary. The Arsenal defender, who came off in the 30th minute against Spain, still suffers from back pain which has been bothering him for several weeks and will not be available.
An unprecedented final eleven for Deschamps
Despite the vast expected reshuffle, Mike Maignan should keep his place in goal. Robin Risser will therefore still have to wait before making his debut in blue. In defense, Malo Gusto, Ibrahima Konaté and Theo Hernandez are expected, while Maxence Lacroix and Lucas Hernandez are competing for the last place.
In the middle, Warren Zaire-Emery should be associated with N’Golo Kanté. In attack, Kylian Mbappé should start well in order to try to win a second consecutive Golden Boot at the World Cup. The captain of the Blues could be accompanied by Maghnes Akliouche, Marcus Thuram and Rayan Cherki, even if Désiré Doué remains a serious option to join the starting lineup.
