What if it was the big upheaval, the turnover party? Forty-eight hours after the insipid draw (0-0) conceded on Thursday evening against Israel at the Stade de France, will Didier Deschamps be able to shake his good old habits and make more changes than usual to challenge Italy on Sunday evening at San Siro?
One thing is certain, after the soporific performance served by his troops to the sparse Dionysian crowd, the coach has many reasons to rotate his team. The first, and not least, would be to show even more your disappointment towards the copy made by your players. In a press conference on Thursday evening, Didier Deschamps did not hide his dissatisfaction at the end of the match. “I will not be satisfied with what we have done,” he assured, after recalling that there were no extenuating circumstances to resort to after this sad draw. We should have won anyway. We could have done better. »
If his team was not really put in danger on a defensive level, on the other hand they hardly lived up to expectations in midfield and in terms of offensive liveliness. An observation which, for once, could provide all the reasons why a usually rather conservative coach should inject new blood. The reflection would be all the more legitimate given that in mid-November some national teams clearly feel the need to take a breath and playing a second match in 72 hours would probably not do the Blues any business.
Thuram protagonist in a stadium he knows well?
In goal there is little doubt that Mike Maignan will line up in this San Siro that he knows by heart and that at least a large part of the public appreciates. In defence, Jules Koundé also appears to be one of the essential elements on the right. Despite returning to “his” den, Milan captain Théo Hernandez could be forced to take a breath and leave, as happened in the two previous meetings, the second match to Lucas Digne on the left. Deschamps could certainly align the Konaté-Upamecano hinge again. But it would not be surprising, given that France are qualified, to see William Saliba come in and see him (re)form with Dayot Upamecano the cornerstone of the last Euro.
But it is in midfield and in attack that the changes should be more numerous. Suspended, Eduardo Camavinga will have to be replaced. While captain N’Golo Kanté could be reappointed, this time he could team up with Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot to revitalize a sector that has proven lacking in investment and boldness against Israel.
Already qualified, the French team will be able to take first place in the San Siro group, provided they win with at least a two-goal margin against the Squadra Azzurra. Harmless or almost harmless on Thursday, the Blues’ attack this time could see Kingsley Coman and Christopher Nkunku start and bring the energy they brought against Israel from the start. It remains to be seen who will be given the point. If Randal Kolo Muani were not overworked by PSG, the coach could however prefer Inter player Marcus Thuram who would also have the advantage of playing in a stadium where he has his signs.
The possible French team: Maignan – Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne – Kone, Kante (cap.) Rabiot – Coman, Thuram, Nkunku.
Which players are most likely to make a significant difference in the upcoming match for France?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today we have the pleasure of speaking with football analyst and former player, Alex Moreau, to discuss France’s recent draw with Israel and the upcoming match against Italy. Alex, thank you for joining us.
Alex Moreau: It’s a pleasure to be here. There’s a lot to unpack after that last match!
Time.news Editor: Indeed! France’s draw was rather underwhelming. Did you expect Didier Deschamps to make significant changes to his lineup for the Italy match on Sunday?
Alex Moreau: Honestly, it’s hard to argue against it. After a lackluster performance in Paris, which left fans and perhaps the coach himself disappointed, I believe Deschamps needs to shake things up. It’s not just about the result; it’s about the attitude and energy on the pitch.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned disappointment. Deschamps has publicly stated he won’t settle for mediocrity after the draw. How important is it for him to convey that sentiment to his players?
Alex Moreau: Extremely important. Coaches need to set the tone and hold players accountable. By expressing his dissatisfaction, Deschamps indicates he has high expectations. It sends a strong message that performances like the one against Israel are unacceptable, especially with a high-stakes match against Italy coming up.
Time.news Editor: Looking at the roster, which players do you think he might consider bringing in to inject some fresh energy?
Alex Moreau: I wouldn’t be surprised to see players like William Saliba given a chance, especially since France has already qualified. It could be a perfect opportunity for Deschamps to infuse the team with new talent and test different formations. Also, given Mike Maignan’s familiarity with San Siro, he’s likely to start in goal, which could provide stability.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. The defensive pairing of Konaté and Upamecano has been solid, but would you expect changes there as well?
Alex Moreau: It’s possible, but I think Deschamps values stability in defense, especially against a strong attacking team like Italy. However, if he wants to experiment, introducing Saliba alongside Konaté could offer fresh dynamics while still maintaining a robust defense.
Time.news Editor: What about the midfield and attack? France has struggled there recently. Are there players who can provide that offensive spark?
Alex Moreau: Yes, and that’s going to be essential. Deschamps might look to players like Marcus Thuram, who is comfortable playing in San Siro. The midfield needs creativity and energy to break through Italy’s organized defense. If they can find a way to connect better with the forwards, that could drastically change their fortunes on the pitch.
Time.news Editor: As we look forward to the match with Italy, what do you think the keys to success will be for France?
Alex Moreau: I think they need to focus on being more proactive, rather than reactive. Controlling the midfield, pressing higher, and maintaining offensive fluidity will be crucial. If they can impose their style of play and take advantage of any mistakes Italy might make, they have a great chance to come away with a win.
Time.news Editor: Great insights, Alex. It will be interesting to see how Deschamps responds to the pressure and whether he’ll make those changes. Thank you for your time today!
Alex Moreau: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to the match. It promises to be an exciting encounter!