The inclusion of midfielder N’Golo Kanté in the preliminary squad for the European Championship came as a surprise to many, considering his absence from the national team since June 2022. Kanté’s return was fueled by Deschamps’ belief in his regained form at Al-Ittihad, despite playing in the Saudi league. This decision raises questions about the level of competition Kanté faced and whether he can seamlessly integrate back into the French squad for such a prestigious tournament.
On the other hand, the first call-up of Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola was relatively expected due to his outstanding performances throughout the season. His impact in critical games, such as the Champions League quarterfinal against Barcelona, solidified his position in the squad. However, the absence of Lucas Hernández, who recently recovered from a serious injury, raises concerns about Deschamps’ selection criteria and the stability of the defensive line.
With the possibility of final adjustments until June 7th, Deschamps faces a crucial decision-making process to ensure he has the best combination of players for the tournament. The absence of certain key players, such as Lucas Hernández, leaves room for speculation about potential last-minute inclusions or changes to the squad structure. The upcoming warmup matches against Luxembourg and Canada will serve as vital opportunities to assess the team’s dynamics and identify areas for improvement before the tournament kick-off on June 14th.
Overall, Deschamps’ selection of the preliminary squad for the Euro 2024 Championship showcases a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. The inclusion of N’Golo Kanté and the first call-up of Bradley Barcola highlight Deschamps’ strategic vision for the team’s composition. However, the absence of certain players and the potential need for squad adjustments underscore the challenges of preparing a competitive national team for a major tournament. France’s performance in Group D against Austria, Netherlands, and Poland will ultimately determine the success of Deschamps’ squad selection and tactical approach.