Three possible surprises in Deschamps' France squad 👀

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Final stretch! The Blues are preparing to face Ukraine and Azerbaijan to conclude these qualifications for the 2026 World Cup. In the absence of key offensive players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, or Marcus Thuram, Didier Deschamps might be compelled to make significant choices.

The presence of the former Nantes player would not have been surprising a few months ago, but given his recent struggles at the club level, his call-up is not so evident today.

Left out during the last two gatherings, RKM, who is getting more playing time at Tottenham, might be recalled by Didier Deschamps, according to several sources.

📸 BEN STANSALL - AFP or licensors

Competition is fierce within a French squad particularly rich in offensive talent. Called up for the first time at 28 during the last gathering, Jean-Philippe Mateta might already be dropped from the list in favor of Randal Kolo Muani , who is likely better integrated within the team.

Florian Thauvin, whose selection sparked numerous reactions, is also expected to be left out. Deschamps, who had explained his desire to promote the integration of young players, might prefer Maghnes Akliouche and Rayan Cherki .

📸 FRANCK FIFE - AFP or licensors

A few weeks after playing his first minutes in the blue jersey, the former Lyon player suffered a thigh injury that kept him off the field for over a month. A setback that did not prevent him from resuming his progress.

In a state of grace with the Skyblues since his return, Cherki should be called up again by Didier Deschamps to confirm his brilliant debut against Spain on June 5th, with the aim of securing a more significant role in the team.

📸 FRANCK FIFE - AFP or licensors

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

📸 Gareth Copley - 2025 Getty Images