Maxence Lacroix’s rise from surprise call-up to France’s third-choice centre-back | OneFootball

Maxence Lacroix is due to make his first World Cup start against Norway on Friday at 21:00, the Crystal Palace defender now third in France’s centre-back hierarchy after a March call-up.

L'Équipe reports that the 26-year-old, expected to join Chelsea after the tournament, has surged thanks to meticulous preparation and a calm assurance that impressed staff.

Former Wolfsburg team-mate Josuha Guilavogui says Lacroix set his sights on Les Bleus as early as 2020, crediting hard work and professionalism. Ex-Sochaux coach Omar Daf recalls him requesting extra Covid sessions, even picking up programmes on a USB from his letterbox.

An ankle problem for William Saliba, plus dips in form from right-sided options such as Benjamin Pavard, opened the door in March. Lacroix, capped 12 times in youth teams but never at under-21, seized it.

Cameos against Brazil, 2-1, and a start versus Colombia, 3-1, sharpened internal opinion, with staff struck by his simplicity and adaptability despite limited Champions League exposure.

Working with fitness coach Karim Tahri, he readied himself for the United States. When a 26th spot was added he edged Pierre Kalulu, and the newly Madrid-based friend Ibrahima Konaté slipped a rung in the pecking order.

Those close to Lacroix say he did not come as a sparring partner, he wants to play a part in this tournament. His family have left Ajat for the summer to watch him take the next step.

Source: L'Équipe