France's Tactical Adjustments Under Didier Deschamps: A Detailed Analysis
As France gears up for their crucial clash with the Netherlands, head coach Didier Deschamps finds himself at a tactical crossroads. While sweeping changes to the starting XI are unlikely, some strategic adjustments could make all the difference in this pivotal match.
Sticking to the Formation
Deschamps' previous lineup, featuring Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Kante, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Thuram; Mbappe, provided a solid foundation for the team. This formation is expected to remain mostly unchanged, as major alterations are not on the horizon.
However, a few strategic decisions could enhance France's performance. One of the key considerations revolves around veteran substitute Olivier Giroud.
Olivier Giroud: The Logical Solution
Giroud, a seasoned player with extensive experience with the French national team, stands out as an obvious straight swap into the starting XI. At 37 years old and Major League Soccer-bound, it’s unlikely that Giroud will carry the entire team to glory in Germany. Nevertheless, he offers enough to assist in the current tight situation.
Marcus Thuram: Central Role Potential
Another option for Deschamps is to place Marcus Thuram as the central attacking figure, moving Giroud to the bench and bringing in another player to occupy the wide left position. Thuram, currently playing for Inter, isn’t a natural lone frontman and excels as part of a unit. His potential to thrive centrally depends on the team’s creativity levels, but the main concern here is whether Thuram is clinical enough to shoulder such responsibility.
Bradley Barcola: A Wildcard Element
At just 21 years old, Bradley Barcola could also enter the XI following a solid second half of his debut campaign with Paris Saint-Germain. Alternating with Mbappe on the left, Barcola has shown an ability to create opportunities, which either Thuram or Giroud would need to capitalize on. Although he may be somewhat raw, Barcola is ready to step up and could be an unpredictable element that the Dutch may struggle to handle.
Randal Kolo Muani: An Unlikely Alteration
Deploying Randal Kolo Muani would likely necessitate a system change. Pairing Thuram or Giroud with Kolo Muani would bring work rate but not the same goal threat Mbappe offers. Changing Deschamps' established dynamic isn’t ideal, making Kolo Muani more suited for a role off the bench.
Kingsley Coman: A Surprising Option
Perhaps the most unexpected player to consider is Kingsley Coman. Inconsistent fitness and infrequent appearances under Deschamps make his inclusion less predictable. Despite uncertainties surrounding his club future in Germany, Coman was rewarded with a squad role. Deschamps is likely to exhaust other options before considering this route.
Assessing Mbappe's Condition
A key factor is the fitness of Kylian Mbappe. He trained with a wrap on his nose and spent part of the session apart from his teammates, while medical staff assessed his recovery. The next 24-48 hours will be crucial for mind games and finalizing strategies.
Deschamps might need a Plan B if Mbappe is unable to start and lead Les Bleus against the Oranje. This game remains a significant opportunity to secure a round of 16 spot with a match to spare, and Deschamps will want to seize this chance.
Need for a Plan B
While France’s tactical changes might not revolutionize the team, the minor adjustments and strategic decisions could make all the difference. The primary focus will be on judiciously deploying experienced players like Giroud and leveraging the potential of younger talents such as Thuram and Barcola.
Whether these tweaks are enough to propel France to the pinnacle in Germany remains to be seen. However, they could certainly help Deschamps navigate this challenging phase and bring success to Les Bleus in the forthcoming matches. Balancing experience with youth, while maintaining a solid tactical foundation, will be key to France's performance against the Netherlands and beyond.