Ligue des Nations: Deschamps' Squad List - A Predictable Choice?
The announcement of Didier Deschamps' squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches has sparked debate amongst football fans. While some see it as a safe and predictable selection, others argue that the manager has taken a bold approach. So, is Deschamps' squad list a predictable one, or has he surprised us with some unexpected choices?
The Expected Names
As expected, the squad features a number of familiar faces. The core of the French team remains intact, with Kylian Mbappé, Karim Benzema, Antoine Griezmann, and Paul Pogba all included. The inclusion of these key players is unsurprising, given their importance to the national team's success in recent years.
A Few Surprises
While the core of the squad is largely familiar, there are a few surprises. The inclusion of Aurélien Tchouaméni is notable, with the young midfielder enjoying a stellar season at Real Madrid. His presence suggests that Deschamps is looking to the future, with a view towards building a new generation of French talent.
The inclusion of Randal Kolo Muani also raises eyebrows. The Nantes forward has enjoyed a breakout season, scoring regularly for his club. His inclusion suggests that Deschamps is willing to experiment with new options in attack, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Benzema's fitness.
A Look at the Missing Players
Perhaps the most notable omission is N'Golo Kanté, who has been sidelined with an injury. His absence is a significant blow to the French team, given his defensive prowess and experience. The absence of Lucas Hernandez is another blow, with the Bayern Munich defender having also been ruled out due to injury.
Predictable or Bold?
While Deschamps' squad list includes a number of expected names, there are also some surprises. The inclusion of young talents like Tchouaméni and Kolo Muani indicates a willingness to look towards the future. However, the absence of key players like Kanté and Hernandez highlights the challenges that Deschamps faces in building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
Ultimately, only time will tell whether Deschamps' squad list is a predictable choice or a bold one. The upcoming Nations League matches will provide the perfect opportunity for the manager to assess his options and begin to lay the groundwork for the future of French football.