France XI vs England: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup, injury latest for World Cup bronze final | OneFootball

France dealt major injury blow ahead of bronze final showdown, but Kylian Mbappe is chasing more history

Didier Deschamps is expected to make changes for France’s bronze final clash against England, though Kylian Mbappe could start in hope of claiming the World Cup 2026 Golden Boot.

Mbappe, who claimed the individual award four years ago in Qatar after scoring a hat-trick in the final loss to Argentina, is currently tied with Lionel Messi at the top of the standings.

Both players have eight goals at this World Cup, but Messi leads the way by virtue of one more assist (4) to Mbappe (3).

As a result, the Frenchman must register at least two goal involvement in Miami on Saturday - while hoping Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham do not get on the scoresheet - to have any chance of pipping Messi to the top scorer award.

Another incentive for Mbappe is two goals would make him the all-time World Cup leading scorer - albeit for 24 hours potentially with the Argentina No10 in action against Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday.

France will certainly be without defender William Saliba after he was forced off in the semi-final loss to Spain with a back injury. Reports claim the Arsenal star requires surgery and could be out for up to five months.

Injury blow: William Saliba

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Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix has filled in for Saliba twice during the tournament and could do so again here, getting the nod over Ibrahima Konate.

Malo Gusto and Theo Hernandez may start in the full-back positions, the latter replacing Lucas Digne after he struggled to contain Lamine Yamal against Spain.

N’Golo Kante and Lucas Hernandez are the only outfield players in the France squad yet to feature at this year’s World Cup, with the former an option to start in midfield alongside Manu Kone.

Injured: Saliba