The Mbappé case, the Chevalier dilemma, an expanded list … The latest news before the list of the Blues for the tour to the United States

The coach of the French national team unveils his list for the upcoming friendly matches against Brazil and Colombia on Thursday.

A new chapter begins for the French team. On Thursday at 2 p.m., Didier Deschamps will face the media for the last time at the headquarters of the French Football Federation to reveal his list of players for the upcoming tour in the United States (Brazil and Colombia, on March 26 and 29 in Boston and Washington). In May – during the second half – he is expected to announce the selected players for the Americas in a different context. Without revealing any secrets, those who are absent in March will have a hard time making it onto the plane to the US. Although there are exceptions, like N’Golo Kanté’s presence in the June list for Euro 2024 or Karim Benzema’s dramatic return just before Euro 2021.

Key player Mbappé will be part of the squad for this final review before the big journey off-season. Deschamps is likely to call up a group of 25 or 26 players, similar to the World Cup (June 11 to July 19). Despite uncertainties and negotiations between his club and the national team, Kylian Mbappé will participate in the matches. Not just as the main star associated with the French team’s sponsor Nike in the United States. But most importantly to lead the French attack, especially against Brazil next Thursday, before facing Colombia three days later. After returning to the field on Tuesday night with his club against Manchester City, the team captain appeared in good form. His fitness level will likely be confirmed on Sunday against Atlético Madrid.

Separately, there are uncertainties about players like Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani, who are appreciated by Deschamps but not at their best levels. The competition within the team has intensified due to Hugo Ekitike’s strong performances this season. With an expanded squad, several players may get the chance to travel to Boston on Tuesday.

In the midfield, the core players (Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Kanté, Koné) will be joined by Eduardo Camavinga and Warren Zaïre-Emery. Corentin Tolisso, despite recent struggles with Lyon, still believes in his chances. Others like Thuram, Guendouzi, and Fofana hope to secure a spot too.

In defense, Jules Koundé’s absence opens up a position on the right side, possibly for Pierre Kalulu who debuted against Spain last June. Other defenders are likely to remain the same unless Deschamps decides to make changes to the squad.

The goalkeeper position, usually not a topic of public debate, will be closely watched on Thursday at 2 p.m. Behind Mike Maignan, the situation of Lucas Chevalier, the team’s number one goalkeeper, is noteworthy. Despite being on the bench for PSG, Deschamps may extend a helping hand to Chevalier, following his approach with previous struggling players. Brice Samba will be there, while the profiles of Jean Buttez and Robin Risser are under observation.