Didier Deschamps yet to settle France XI after two World Cup matches | OneFootball

After two World Cup games, France still lack a settled XI, with the left-back and left-wing roles unresolved and Aurélien Tchouaméni’s adductor being monitored.

France had six days between the 3-1 win over Senegal and the 3-0 victory against Iraq, yet Didier Deschamps still made adjustments. According to L'Équipe, he has kept his options open and is sharing minutes, expecting impact from starters and substitutes.

At left-back, Lucas Digne ended Theo Hernandez’s run of seven consecutive major-tournament starts. He offered width with overlaps and crosses, but some defensive lapses, despite regular cover from his winger, meant he did not make the role his own.

On the left of the attack, where Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola are competing, Barcola began brightly then faded. He was the only attacker not to register on the stats sheet and had the fewest touches among starters, 43, though he still provided depth, pace and diligent tracking back.

In midfield, Manu Koné started the second match for Tchouaméni, yet he remains behind him in the pecking order and could not fully impose himself. Tchouaméni felt minor groin discomfort, rotation had been planned, and he impressed for work-rate, ball recovery and use of the ball. Deschamps wants to rein him in slightly, noting Roma’s system pushes him forward and France must keep balance.

The final group game against Norway is on Friday in Boston at 21:00. With only four days to recover, Deschamps should rotate again to manage his squad.

Source: L'Équipe