Without Lucu and Ollivon, the latest indiscretions on the composition of the French XV against Japan

In just over a week, the French XV will play its first international match as part of the 2024/2025 season. It is Japan who will face the Blues of Galthié. Before the All Blacks and then the Pumas tried to beat Antoine Dupont and his teammates.

Continuity and adaptation: Galthié’s strategy

The French group has not been spared from injuries in recent months. So much so that the starting XV which will face the Japanese has evolved over the weeks and the performances of each individual. The management of men, with a view to the World Cup, but also the season that still remains to be played, pushes the management to make certain choices for this first one. Or even for the next two.

Like leaving Maxime Lucu and Charles Ollivon in the stands or even in a club as was the case this week. The scrum half, Dupont's understudy, and the former French captain, having been made available to the UBB and the RCT for the 9th day.

According to the latest indiscretions from Midi Olympique, neither Bordeaux nor Toulon will be on the scoresheet against Japan. Galthié and his deputies preferred to line up Nolann Le Garrec among the finishers and Alexandre Roumat on the third row.

RUGBY. November tests: Why Mickaël Guillard could be the surprise of the French XVUp front, the absences of Baille, Mauvaka as well as the probable absence of Atonio also force the staff to give certain elements a chance. Thus the Bayonnais Tatafu could start as has been mentioned for several days. Also no Romain Taofifenua but his former teammate at Lyon, Mickaël Guillard.

Dupont and Ramos: a hinge of trust

Behind, no big surprises in the attack line with Penaud and Bielle-Biarrey. The absence of Romain Ntamack, however, pushed the coach to make a choice. And it is Thomas Ramos who will meet his teammate in Toulouse Antoine Dupont. Relegating Matthieu Jalibert to the bench to finish the job in the second period.

The presence of the Stade Toulousain full-back at the opening offers a new opportunity for Léo Barré to shine despite the complicated start to the season at Stade Français. The French management is looking for continuity. But he is also forced to adapt. With the withdrawal of Depoortère, who started against the English last March, uncertainty takes center stage.

XV of France. Humble but determined, Émilien Gailleton intends to seize his chance and take a step forwardOnly Gaël Fickou seems certain to start against Japan. The Bordelais Moefana and the Palois Gailleton compete for the place of second center. Here, Midol has not decided and believes that Toulouse Paul Costes could even have a chance on the bench. Bordelais Moefana, although suspended, should be fit to play. His versatility on the wing could offer him a place in the 23.