France is one of the favorites to win Euro 2024, but a series of injuries and some players’ poor form mean Les Bleus will head into the competition with uncertainties. Drawn into Group D with the Netherlands, Poland, and Austria, the World Cup runners-up have a seemingly comfortable path. However, coach Didier Deschamps must get creative with his defense due to the absence of Lucas Hernandez, who has been ruled out with a serious knee injury.
The challenges extend beyond Hernandez’s absence. Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate, who were standout performers at the 2022 World Cup, are currently experiencing a rough patch and have lost their starting positions at their respective clubs. Adding to the defensive woes, goalkeeper Mike Maignan has struggled with injuries this season, casting doubt on his ability to maintain fitness throughout the tournament.
Despite these setbacks, France’s experience on the big stage remains unparalleled. They demonstrated their resilience at the World Cup, reaching the final despite a string of disappointing performances leading up to the tournament. However, under Deschamps’ 12-year tenure, France has yet to win the European Championship, with their best result being a runner-up finish in 2016 on home soil. In the last edition, they were ousted in the last 16 by Switzerland on penalties, a setback they aim to overcome in Germany.
Deschamps acknowledges the heightened expectations but remains focused on the task ahead. “I didn’t win the Euro as a coach, but a lot of coaches didn’t win it. After the World Cup, there’s nothing bigger than the Euros. We’re going to approach the next one with ambition but also with a clear head,” he said. “We’re one of the favorites, like other teams, after all – there’s a certain logic.”
Despite defensive concerns, France boasts one of the most lethal attacking forces in Kylian Mbappé. Ousmane Dembele has the ability to create chaos on the field, and Paris St Germain teammate Bradley Barcola, called up by Deschamps for the first time, adds another threat. In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni is recovering from a foot injury, prompting Deschamps to recall N’Golo Kante, who last featured for France in June 2022. Kante’s experience and fitness will be crucial in stabilizing the midfield.
“He’s back to full fitness and with all his experience, I’m convinced that the French team will be stronger with N’Golo Kante,” Deschamps affirmed.
As France prepares for Euro 2024, the team faces significant hurdles but remains one of the favorites. The upcoming matches will be a true test of their resilience and ability to overcome challenges in their quest for European glory.
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