The challenge of Didier Deschamps
Just as playing professional football is an advantage when it comes to managing a team, the fact of also having been a world champion is an invaluable plus to achieve the same goal, but now from the bench. That is the challenge of Didier Deschamps, France's coach. To put into practice, and from his role, what was achieved in 1998 by a team led by Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry.
Save the distances, today he has an experienced and very technically rich team. Starting from the goal, where Hugo Lloris reflects security and a significant number of games under his belt: 94, since his debut against Uruguay in 2008. Djibril Sidibé from Monaco is the most consistent right back chosen by Deschamps, while Lucas Digne plays on the left side, taking the place of a historic player like Patrice Evra. A reflection? If there is a weak point in France, it is their full-backs.
In defense, Raphael Varane and Samuel Umtiti, starters in the two biggest teams in Spain (Real Madrid and Barcelona, respectively), form the starting duo, although the experienced Laurent Koscielny from Arsenal, can fight for a spot. Characteristics? Umtiti is faster and has the ability to anticipate, while Varane is virtuoso in aerial play. In the midfield, Deschamps relies on the enormous deployment of Kanté, the strength of Matuidi, and the long pass of Pogba. On the bench, Tolisso waits for his opportunity.
And up front, the biggest headache for the coach comes. Antoine Griezmann is a sure starter and partners with Olivier Giroud - a slow number 9, but with good aerial play - when Deschamps decides to play with two forwards. On the wings, Kylian Mbappé seems to be the only one with a reserved place. And on the other wing, Ousmane Dembélé and Anthony Martial are the two strongest options, although the Barcelona player is more liked by the coach. However you look at it, France is a candidate to fight for the title and repeat the achievement of 20 years ago.
By Gabriel Casimiro
Deschamps's lineup.