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The dynamic has been positive for the French team since its loss in Euro 2020, after its elimination in the round of 16 against Switzerland (3-3/5-4 in the TAB). Overcome in a 3-5-2, the Blues are gradually finding certainties and remain in great victories against the Ivory Coast (2-1) and South Africa (5-0). Crowned last October during the 2021 Nations League, the Blues aim to defend their title with four matches scheduled for June. Hosting Denmark (June 3) and Croatia (June 13), Didier Deschamps’ team will also have trips to negotiate against Croatia (June 6) and Austria (June 10). By having to announce his roster for this year-end meeting on Thursday, the coach may have a solid foundation, but he might be tempted to make some small adjustments.
Alban Lafont and Ibrahima Konaté to reward constant progress
As a goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris is still number one ahead of Mike Maignan, but behind him he is more open. If Steve Mandanda lost his place at Olympique de Marseille, Alphonse Areola, who was called up last March, no longer plays for West Ham. The French coach could then think of a future solution with Alban Lafont (23 years old). In constant evolution, the Nantes goalkeeper is coming off a great season in which he stood out for winning the Coupe de France against Nice (1-0), as well as being nominated for the title of best goalkeeper in Ligue 1 in recent trophies. . The possibility of seeing him join the Blues is not a utopia and now it remains to be seen if Didier Deschamps plans to launch him in June. In central defence, Raphaël Varane, Jules Koundé, Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe appear well established in France’s group. Last call, William Saliba is having a rough end to the season, but he could still be there.
Unless the coach decides to reward the great season of Ibrahima Konaté (22) with Liverpool. Author of a great season, the former RB Leipzig player has adapted perfectly to the Premier League and will play the Champions League final against Real Madrid on Saturday 28 May. Therefore, a first is possible. We must not also forget Benjamin Pavard, who plays for Bayern Munich and was selected last March before giving way to William Saliba as a package. Europa League finalist with Eintracht Frankfurt, Evan Ndicka (22) goes further, but Didier Deschamps likes the Bundesliga and could not be insensitive to his good season. In the corridors, however, it is difficult to see Kingsley Coman and Jonathan Clauss being challenged from the right. Not even Theo Hernandez on the left. Lucas Digne has the experience on his side and he is likely to be there, unless the manager decides to give Madrid Ferland Mendy a chance.
Two Rennais in discussion
In midfield, the Blues will be able to count on certainties with N’Golo Kanté, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Paul Pogba even if the latter is still injured. Therefore, his presence will depend on his physical integrity. Mattéo Guendouzi, who is having a good season and scored on the last rally, should be there, as should Christopher Nkunku, who is successful with RB Leipzig. The uncertainty in midfield comes from the hand of Adrien Rabiot, less prominent with Juventus. This could push the coach to try other options. Naturally we think of Eduardo Camavinga who, despite his substitute status at Real Madrid, is coming off an interesting second half of the season. Seeing him return to the Blues would not be so surprising for those who will play the Champions League final with the Merengues. Another clue, the one that leads to Rennais Benjamin Bourigeaud. Shortlisted with the Habs, he’s still in for a crazy season in Ligue 1 and could get a chance at him at 28. It remains to be seen if Didier Deschamps will integrate an additional midfielder from his roster last March.
Stade Rennais are on a roll since Martin Terrier, who has scored 21 Ligue 1 goals this season, is also shortlisted. Versatile, he could get a chance at him while Olivier Giroud, present in the last game, could pay the price. He could join Karim Benzema and Wissam Ben Yedder in attacking options. Also among the possibilities imagined by Didier Deschamps, Nantes Randal Kolo Muani received the first selection from him and could upset the predictions. While Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappé are indisputable in the group, Moussa Diaby has the least secure place. Nabil Fekir very good with Real Betis Balompié or even Ousmane Dembélé who returns well with FC Barcelona are possibilities. Verdict at 2:00 p.m. with the announcement of the list by the coach.