Deschamps Leaves Out Trio of Stars as France Prepare for Israel and Belgium
Didier Deschamps has made some surprise omissions from his latest France squad, leaving out Kylian Mbappe, N’Golo Kante, and Adrien Rabiot as they prepare to face Israel and Belgium later this month.
The 25-year-old Mbappe has been left out of the squad to aid his recovery from a thigh injury, despite being fit enough to come off the bench in Real Madrid’s Champions League defeat to Lille on Wednesday night. Deschamps has opted to err on the side of caution, stating, "I spoke with Kylian, he has a problem which isn’t serious but it requires care so that he recovers well. I’m not here to take risks."
Mbappe’s absence is a significant blow to France, but Deschamps has called up some exciting young talent to fill the void. Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku, Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, and PSG’s Bradley Barcola have all been included in the squad.
The France manager has also paid tribute to Antoine Griezmann, who retired from international duty on Monday after winning 137 caps. Deschamps praised Griezmann, saying, "It is strange not to see him. I can only thank him for everything he has done and brought to the French team. He’s not ending his career either. He’s a very good example to follow for young people."
France’s squad to face Israel and Belgium is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Mike Maignan, Brice Samba
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss, Lucas Digne, Wesley Fofana, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Joules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, Matteo Guendouzi, Manu Kone, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, Christopher Nkunku, Michael Olise, Marcus Thuram
France take on Israel in a Nations League clash at the Bozsik Arena in Hungary on October 10, before traveling to face Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels on October 14.
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