Deschamps Closes the Door on Ribéry and Nasri’s France Return
The prospect of seeing Franck Ribéry or Samir Nasri back in the French national team remains highly unlikely, according to head coach Didier Deschamps.
Speaking in an interview with AFP, Deschamps was unequivocal about the stance of the French Football Federation regarding players who have expressed a lack of desire to represent the national side. His message was clear: only those who fully commit to the shirt will be considered.
“I will not call up a player who doesn’t want to come,” said the France boss, referring specifically to Samir Nasri. The Manchester City midfielder has had a turbulent relationship with the national team and has previously stated that being part of the squad no longer made him happy.
“I have no reaction to what he said,” Deschamps added. “I didn’t leave him out; he himself said he no longer wanted to play for France. That’s it. In the end, like with all players, it’s me who decides. But if a player doesn’t want to come, I won’t select him.”
The coach, widely known as “DD”, also addressed the situation surrounding Franck Ribéry, who officially retired from international duty in August 2014. The Bayern Munich winger had already withdrawn from that year’s World Cup squad due to a back injury.
“He made his decision,” Deschamps stated. “So there’s no ‘if’. He’s not selectable anymore. Again, I don’t pick players who don’t want to be here. Out of respect for those who are desperate to represent France and who I sometimes have to leave out, I won’t call up those who have turned their backs on the team.”
Deschamps also alluded to factors beyond just footballing ability when selecting his squads. “There is the sporting criterion, and there are others too,” he said, hinting at the importance of team spirit and attitude.
With France continuing to nurture a new generation of talent, the comments from the coach effectively signal the end of any hopes for a national team return for Ribéry and Nasri. For Deschamps, commitment and pride in representing the national colours remain non-negotiable.
