‘Finishing a difficult season’ – France coach explains why Real Madrid star missed out on World Cup squad | OneFootball

Didier Deschamps has explained why Eduardo Camavinga was left out of France’s final squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, capping off what has been an extremely frustrating season for the Real Madrid midfielder.

While teammates Aurelien Tchouameni and Kylian Mbappe celebrated their inclusion in the national team setup, Camavinga was one of the biggest names missing from the final list announced by the French manager.

Deschamps addressed the decision publicly and admitted that the midfielder’s physical condition and lack of continuity this season played a major role in his exclusion from the squad.

What was said?

The France manager explained that squad balance, match rhythm and player preparation were all considered before making the final selection, with Camavinga ultimately missing out after a season disrupted by injuries and inconsistent performances.

“Camavinga is finishing a difficult season; he played little due to injuries. He is still very young. 

Camavinga will not play at the World Cup. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

“I have to make choices and build the team squad. But he is entitled to be angry with me; I understand that,” said Deschamps.

Difficult season finally catches up

Camavinga entered the season with expectations of becoming one of the most important midfielders at Real Madrid, but things never fully clicked for the French international.

Injuries repeatedly interrupted his momentum, preventing him from building rhythm across the campaign. 

Even when available, the midfielder struggled to consistently hold down a guaranteed starting place in the team.

As such, Camavinga has made 28 La Liga appearances this season, but only started 16 matches while coming off the bench on 12 occasions. 

Camavinga has lost his place in the Real Madrid starting XI. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

More tellingly, he completed the full 90 minutes in just six of those league starts.

Costly errors at times

Apart from fitness issues, several costly mistakes during the campaign also increased scrutiny around his performances as Real Madrid endured a disappointing season overall.

At times, Camavinga still showed flashes of the energy and versatility that made him one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders.

 However, the consistency needed at the highest level simply was not there often enough this year.

Deschamps’ decision, therefore, feels less like a shock and more like a reflection of the reality surrounding the player’s current situation.

Source: L’Equipe