Kylian Mbappé’s absence from the French national team, due to disciplinary decisions from coach Didier Deschamps, marks a significant moment as the squad prepares for crucial Nations League matches. With the team aiming for quarter-final qualification, emerging talents like Michaël Olise and Randal Kolo Muani are set to play vital roles. However, the atmosphere surrounding their return to Stade de France is muted, impacted by security concerns and a lack of star power, potentially resulting in low attendance.
Key Players Missing from the Lineup
It’s hard to miss the absence of Kylian Mbappé, who has not been selected by Didier Deschamps. The Real Madrid star, typically the captain of the national team, will not be joining the squad at Clairefontaine this week. This decision comes after the coach expressed frustration with his previous absence in October and aims to reinforce his authority over the team. Following a disappointing performance in September, both on and off the pitch, Mbappé, despite his desire to participate according to Deschamps, finds himself sidelined.
In addition, Youssouf Fofana will also be missing from the midfield. The Milan player reportedly displayed a less-than-ideal attitude during the last gathering, resulting in him being overtaken by Guendouzi, Zaïre-Emery, and Koné, alongside established names like Kanté, Rabiot, and Camavinga. Aside from these notable omissions, there are few significant absentees, with several players considered too inexperienced for this gathering (Akliouche, Millot, Ekitike).
ALSO SEE – The training session of the Blues at Clairefontaine on Monday evening.
What’s on the Line During This Gathering?
The stakes are high for the French team. Currently sitting second in their Nations League group with 9 points, the Blues aim to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. To achieve this, they must finish in the top two, with crucial matches against Israel and a trip to Italy on Sunday. A win at Stade de France on Thursday, paired with a slip-up from Italy (currently leading with 10 points against Belgium), could position France as group leaders heading into Milan. The quarter-finals of the Nations League are set for March, and should the vice-world champions qualify, they will advance to the Final Four in June. Notably, the further the Blues progress in this tournament, the later they will begin their qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup.
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Deschamps’ Expectations for the Final Gathering of the Year
Didier Deschamps is looking for both qualification (as mentioned above) and continuity within a team undergoing reconstruction. Pleased with his players’ performances in October (including victories against Israel 1-4 and Belgium 1-2) with a restructured squad, he aims to cultivate a competitive spirit, monitor the newcomers’ attitudes, and establish a new locker room dynamic. The objective is to solidify the French squad in preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
In light of Giroud and Griezmann’s retirements since the Euro and Mbappé’s recent challenges, the coach is tasked with building a new team. With varying leadership styles, ambitious personalities, and diverse technical profiles, many projects lie ahead. The captain’s armband is expected to be handed to N’Golo Kanté, signifying a new chapter for the team.
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What to Watch For in the Upcoming Matches
With the departure of veterans like Giroud and Griezmann, alongside the absence of crucial players like Tchouaméni, emerging talents will have the opportunity to make their mark and secure their spots in the national team for the future. Michaël Olise is a name to watch as he aims to step up and fill the void left by Griezmann. Despite a disappointing showing last month, this ultra-talented player must enhance his creativity to make an impression. In midfield, Mattéo Guendouzi, who had a commendable performance in October, needs to maintain his level if called upon.
In the attacking front, no striker has stood out following Giroud’s retirement. Randal Kolo Muani, who netted a brace against Belgium, is likely to take center stage despite being a substitute at PSG. Marcus Thuram, with 27 caps and 2 goals, must seize any opportunity to shine if he gets the start. Christopher Nkunku, who recently returned and scored against Israel, has the chance to replicate that success. Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola, currently the top scorer in Ligue 1, has a clear path on the left side in Mbappé’s absence and must capitalize on this opportunity. Other players like Manu Koné, Benjamin Pavard, and Lucas Chevalier should also be closely monitored for their performances.
Why the Return of the Blues Won’t be a Grand Celebration
The current circumstances do not lend themselves to a celebratory atmosphere. As the Blues return to Stade de France for the first time since June 2023 due to renovations and the upcoming Olympics, they face Israel, a team that doesn’t particularly excite fans and competes in the international second division. Additionally, following a lackluster Euro performance (despite reaching the semi-finals), this French team is less captivating. The absence of star player Kylian Mbappé further diminishes the reasons for fans to attend the match on a weekday evening.
Moreover, the security context surrounding the match adds another layer of concern. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East affecting Europe, a significant police presence of 4,000 officers is planned, and authorities are taking precautions due to threats related to this fixture, which coincides with the anniversary of the November 13, 2015 attacks. As reported, attendance could be as low as 15,000 to 20,000, marking the lowest turnout for a Blues match at the Stade de France.