France Prepares for Nations League Clash Against Israel Amid Injury Concerns

As the French national team gears up for their Nations League match against Israel, set to take place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 20:45 in Budapest, several challenges lie ahead for the team and its coach, Didier Deschamps. With several key players absent, Deschamps is tasked with restructuring his lineup.

The French squad is notably impacted by the absence of stalwarts such as Dayot Upamecano, N’Golo Kanté, Adrien Rabiot, and Kylian Mbappé due to injuries. Additionally, Antoine Griezmann‘s unexpected retirement from international football has further compounded the selection woes for Deschamps, particularly in the offensive segment.

This situation has opened up opportunities for Christopher Nkunku, who is set to play a central role akin to Griezmann, and Michael Olise, as they step into the spotlight. Meanwhile, despite an impressive start to the season at Paris, Bradley Barcola will begin the match on the bench; Nkunku is instead slated to occupy the left flank.

In the forward line, Randal Kolo Muani has been given the nod over Marcus Thuram, who has struggled to find form in recent international outings. Coach Deschamps has also turned to Real Madrid for midfield stability, with Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni set to form a partnership, with the latter donning the captain’s armband in Mbappé’s absence.

Defensively, Ibrahima Konaté is expected to fill the void left by Upamecano, providing experience and strength at the heart of the defense. These arrangements underline the tactical adjustments Deschamps has had to employ in light of the team’s current constraints.