Didier Dechamps explains Jean-Philippe Mateta’s maiden France invite

France coach Didier Dechamps has explained his decision to include Jean-Philippe Mateta in his squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying games.

The Les Blues are gearing up for the crucial games against Azerbaijan and Iceland respectively. The European giants will host Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10 before traveling to face Iceland three days later.

Ahead of the games, coach Didier Dechamps has unveiled his squad, handing Crystal Palace forward his debut call up following an outstanding performance.

“He’s not that young, although he featured in most of France’s youth teams, but he has that ability to score goals“, Deschamps said in his presser. The 1998 and 2018 World Cup winner also said he took notice of Mateta’s performances (4 goals) during France’s run to the Olympic silver medal in the 2024 Paris Summer Games.

Deschamps added that Mateta, like 50 other players or so, had received preliminary call-ups for a while now. “It’s up to me and my staff to foresee solutions to cover absences.”

France are without several key players due to injury setbacks. The Les Blues will have to battle for points without Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Rayan Cherki, Randal Kolo Muani and Marcus Thuram.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid superstar, Kylian Mbappe is expected to lead the France national team as they aim to maintain their perfect start to the qualifiers.

The 28-year-old Franco-Congolese forward has made six appearances in the Premier League for Crystal Palace, scoring two goals across the period.

Despite DR Congo eligibility, the talented attacker has opted to represent Franec at the international level.