Injury Blow for Josuha Guilavogui Ahead of World Cup Squad Announcement
Paris, France – France international Josuha Guilavogui faces a race against time to be fit for the upcoming FIFA World Cup after sustaining a hamstring injury during a domestic league match on Sunday. The setback casts serious doubt over his inclusion in Didier Deschamps’ preliminary squad, which is due to be announced in just a few weeks.
The midfielder was forced off at halftime during his club’s match against Stade de Reims. Initial medical assessments, confirmed on the club’s official website, revealed a hamstring injury that is expected to sideline the player for approximately two months.
This development is a significant blow not only for the player but also for national team selectors, as the injury comes at a crucial stage in preparations for the tournament in Brazil.
World Cup Dreams in Jeopardy
With France manager Didier Deschamps set to announce his preliminary 30-man squad on May 13, the timing of Guilavogui’s injury could hardly be worse. Medical forecasts suggest the Franco-Guinean midfielder will miss most of May and possibly June, leaving him little to no time to regain match fitness before the World Cup begins.
Guilavogui had been on the radar for a place in Deschamps’ squad following recent national team call-ups. He was part of the squad for France’s last international fixture—a 2-0 friendly win against the Netherlands—but remained on the bench throughout the match.
Despite not playing in that match, his selection was seen as a sign of the coaching staff’s continued interest in integrating him into the national setup. However, the latest injury may now shift Deschamps’ plans.
Tough Competition for Midfield Spots
France’s midfield options are deep and competitive, with players such as Paul Pogba, Blaise Matuidi, Yohan Cabaye, and Maxime Gonalons all vying for places. Guilavogui, who currently plays for Saint-Étienne, has often been viewed as a valuable squad player due to his physicality and versatility in the defensive midfield role.
Nevertheless, his lack of recent playing time and now this significant injury could put him behind in the pecking order. Selection for a major tournament typically hinges not only on talent but also on a player’s physical readiness and form—criteria Guilavogui may struggle to meet in the coming weeks.
Waiting Game for Deschamps
Deschamps has previously expressed the importance of selecting players who are both fit and in rhythm. With the World Cup fast approaching, it is unlikely the France coach will risk including players who are recovering from injury and not fully match-fit.
For Guilavogui, the coming weeks will be filled with uncertainty. Rehabilitation and recovery will be the focus, but whether that will be enough to convince the national team selectors remains to be seen.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, one of France’s promising midfielders now finds his international ambitions hanging in the balance.
