Didier Deschamps announced a change. In total, seven new players join the eleven compared to the starting team against Israel (0-0). For this trip to Italy, decisive for first place in the group, the Blues are moving forward in a 4-3-3 tactical formation this Sunday, November 17 (8:45 pm, TF1). Positioned to support the attacker during the last session on Saturday, Christopher Nkunku should occupy the end of lane.
Marcus Thuram, who returns to San Siro, a stadium where he already has his mark after scoring many goals there with Inter, will start up front. the animation of the right wing will not be entrusted to Michael Olise, nor to Kingsley Coman, but to Randal Kolo Muani. The Parisian, a little used to his club, is renewed among the starters.
In the midfield, in the absence of Eduardo Camavinga, suspended, Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot will work together. The Marseilles has not started in the French team since the Euro semi-final lost against Spain (2-1) on July 9, 2024. After playing a few minutes against Israel, his return will need to be scrutinized and will to call him. animation for a sector that was so lacking three days before. Matteo Guendouzi will support them to condense the midfield. He also did not feature on Saturday in the appointed starting line-up.
N’Golo Kanté is on the bench so he gives up his captain’s armband to Ibrahima Konaté. The Liverpool defender is linked with William Saliba in the central hinge. The lanes are allocated to Jules Koundé and Lucas Digne, the latter replacing Théo Hernandez, who saved during the final training session. As for Jonathan Clauss, he feels a little discomfort in the back of his house and is not on the match sheet.
Already qualified for the Nations League quarter-finals (March 20 and 23, 2025), like Italy, the Blues must win, by at least two goals, to hope to finish on top and get they more favorable opponents next spring. The draw is scheduled for November 22 in Nyon.
Composition of the Blues: Maignan – Kounde, Conate (cap.), Saliba, Digne – Guendouzi, Cón, Rabiot – Kolo Muani, Thuram, Nkunku
– What are the key tactical changes Didier Deschamps is implementing for the match against Italy?
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special interview! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with football analyst and tactical expert, Dr. Eva Moreau. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Moreau.
Dr. Eva Moreau: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the recent changes in the French national team as they prepare for their crucial match against Italy.
Time.news Editor: Didier Deschamps has announced some significant changes for the match, particularly with seven new players joining the starting lineup. What do you think motivated these changes?
Dr. Eva Moreau: Well, it’s clear that Deschamps is aiming for a fresh tactical approach ahead of such a critical game. The switch to a 4-3-3 formation is designed to enhance both offensive pressure and defensive stability, especially against a strong opponent like Italy.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of tactics, how do you think the new formation will impact the overall play style of the team?
Dr. Eva Moreau: The 4-3-3 formation will allow the Blues to maintain greater width, optimizing their wing play. With players like Randal Kolo Muani taking charge of the right wing, we’ll likely see more dynamic movement aimed at creating opportunities for the striker, Marcus Thuram, who, as we’ve noted, has an impressive record at San Siro.
Time.news Editor: That leads us to discuss the players themselves. There’s a lot of buzz around Christopher Nkunku being positioned to support the attack. What do you make of his role?
Dr. Eva Moreau: Nkunku is a fantastic asset in this lineup. His versatility and ability to link play effectively make him crucial in supporting the forward line. Encouraging him to occupy the flanks can maximize his speed and dribbling skills, allowing him to create spaces and options for his teammates.
Time.news Editor: Right. And regarding the other changes in personnel, what do you think about the decision to leave out players like Michael Olise and Kingsley Coman from the starting eleven?
Dr. Eva Moreau: It’s a bold move by Deschamps. While Olise and Coman bring invaluable talents to the team, he may be looking for particular attributes that Kolo Muani offers, such as physical presence and defensive work rate. This indicates a strategic shift; Deschamps is likely prioritizing balance and discipline over star power for this decisive match.
Time.news Editor: With so many adjustments, how do you think these changes will affect team chemistry on the pitch, especially given the high stakes of the match?
Dr. Eva Moreau: There’s always a gamble when you bring in so many new faces. However, if the players have trained well together and clearly understand their roles within the formation, they can quickly develop that on-field chemistry. The key will be communication and flexibility during the match, especially in a challenging environment like San Siro.
Time.news Editor: As a final thought, what do you believe will be the one thing to watch during this match that could determine the outcome?
Dr. Eva Moreau: The effectiveness of the French counter-attack will be crucial. With Italy likely pressing for control, if the French players capitalize on transitions from defense to offense, creating quick breaks led by Nkunku and Kolo Muani, we could see them exploit Italy’s weaknesses, ultimately leading to a victory.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Moreau! Your insights are invaluable as we head into this critical match. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Eva Moreau: Thank you! I’m looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds on the pitch.