Thibaut Simon, Media365, published on Sunday October 13, 2024 at 6:44 p.m.
This Monday, October 14, France faces Belgium to confirm its success against Israel. At a press conference, coach Didier Deschamps discussed the situation of several players and the potential changes on the eve of the match.
All eyes will be on the King Baudouin stadium this Monday. Between Belgium and France, a question of almost national supremacy will be in the minds with a Belgian team revengeful after the defeat of the first leg (2-0). This Sunday, Didier Deschamps and Aurélien Tchouaméni were at a press conference the day before the match. If the Mbappé case was necessarily mentioned, the new captain of the Blues confirmed the love that the attacker had for his country and that the subject took on disproportionate proportions. The Blues coach then presented himself to journalists. Didier Deschamps confirmed that changes will take place, but that the entire squad will not be changed. Unlike the first leg in September, the French had two matches in three days and not all of them were at 100%, forcing the coach to make a significant turnover. Here the context is different. Thuram, Guendouzi, Digne and Koné could start against the Red Devils.
Koné, Digne, what place within the squad?
Didier Deschamps returned to the situation of several players, replacements against Israel. First on the list: Manu Cone. New AS Roma midfielder, silver medalist at the Olympic Gamesthe former Borussia Mönchengladbach player was called up by Didier Deschamps in September where he played in the two matches against Italy and Belgium. Unavailable for the match against Israel, Koné could be lined up against the Red Devils. It remains to be seen in what position he will evolve. “Attacking midfielder, 6 or 6 and a half… He has the ability to recover, not clumsy in getting the balls out… He had this fault of taking boxes quickly, but he exudes a lot of tranquility.” explained the coach. For Lucas Dignethe situation is different. The Aston Villa defender has been present in the France group for several years. Not always used with the Blues, the one who has 47 selections with the France team could also start against Belgium. The player remains an important element, even if he has not always experienced the joys of victories in major competitions. For Deschamps, Digne remains one of the best in his position thanks to solid club experience.
Thuram, don’t skip steps
The situation of Marcus Thuram in the France team was also one of the topics of discussion. Sparkling with Inter Milan, the striker has not yet had the success hoped for with the Blues. A start could restore confidence to the striker, even if the coach was cautious and reassuring. “Regarding Marcus, he is very effective with his club, he has a step to take. We must not propel them or compete with them (evoking the new generation of which Thuram, Olise, Barcola are part). They almost have the obligation to be decisive. It requires tranquility to make the most calm gesture possible.” Deschamps explained.
