Deschamps explains Nkunku’s France call-up making Giroud comparison | OneFootball

Didier Deschamps says Christopher Nkunku has ‘interesting potential’ and can play an important role in the France squad despite lack of playing time at Milan.

Nkunku has been included in the France national team squad for World Cup qualifying matches against Azerbaijan and Iceland, but Deschamps’ decision has been somewhat surprising given that Nkunku has only started one game since joining Milan in the summer transfer window.

Four more Serie A players have been included in the squad: Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot, Khephren Thuram and Manu Koné. Inter forward Marcus Thuram was also part of the team, but was replaced by Jean-Philippe Mateta after suffering an injury in a Champions League game on Tuesday.

France’s head coach Didier Deschamps reacts during the UEFA Nations League Group A2 football match between France and Italy at the Parc des Princes in Paris on September 6, 2024. (Photo by Franck FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

“Long-term absences force me and my staff to reflect. Mateta has been called up for his profile and ability to score, and also due to Thuram’s absence,” Deschamps said at a press conference via TMW.

Exams have highlighted that Thuram faces a month on the sidelines because of a hamstring injury.

Thuram is a regular Inter starter, while his compatriot Nkunku has only amassed 90 minutes of football across three games at Milan, two as a substitute.

Nevertheless, the ex-Chelsea striker has already scored a goal for the Rossoneri.

Deschamps: Nkunku has ‘interesting potential’

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 17: Didier Deschamps, Head Coach of France, lines up with coaching staff during the National Anthems prior to the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between Italy and France at San Siro on November 17, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Nkunku and Camavinga have had little playing time, but I am convinced of their potential,” Deschamps explained.

“Sometimes the breath of the national team also benefits clubs, especially when players arrive unhappy. Nkunku hasn’t been spared from injuries. He has very interesting potential. I’m convinced of it. At the moment, he has found little space, but I have faith in him. For example, when Giroud was at Chelsea, it was very complicated, but that didn’t stop him from being important for us.”

Official France squad for October games