Didier Deschamps, the coach of the France national team, has unveiled his squad for the upcoming friendly match against the Netherlands, which includes some surprises and notable absences.
Here is the squad:
Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (OM), Stéphane Ruffier (ASSE)
Defenders: Patrice Évra (Manchester United), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Raphaël Varane (Real Madrid), Eliaquim Mangala (FC Porto), Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Lucas Digne (PSG), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool)
Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (PSG), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Paul Pogba (Juventus Turin), Clément Grenier (OL), Matthieu Valbuena (OM), Rio Mavuba (LOSC), Moussa Sissokho (Newcastle)
Forwards: Franck Ribéry (Bayern Munich), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Loïc Rémy (Newcastle), Dimitri Payet (OM)
Deschamps commented on his selections:
- Lucas Digne: Despite limited playing time with PSG, Digne has shown promise whenever given the opportunity. His consistent performances in past seasons, coupled with his potential, merit his inclusion.
- Yohan Cabaye: Cabaye, although experiencing reduced playing time at PSG, had a significant role at Newcastle earlier in the season. Deschamps hopes he will find opportunities at PSG to maintain fitness and form.
- Notable absentees include Nasri, Abidal, Thauvin, Rami, and Lacazette. However, Deschamps emphasizes that this selection is crucial, with the most significant one to come on June 2.
- Karim Benzema: Deschamps acknowledges Benzema’s excellent form and includes him in the squad.
Overall, the squad reflects a balance between established players and promising talents, with a focus on maintaining fitness and form leading up to the World Cup.
