France manager Zidane is expected to make several changes to his starting line-up for Monday’s final UEFA Nations League group-stage match against Turkey.
Les Bleus go into the game under pressure after losing 3-1 to Italy last week. A draw in Bordeaux on Monday, Beijing Time (CET), would be enough to secure France a place in the quarter-finals.
Defeat, however, would leave France vulnerable to dropping from second in Group A Division 1 to third. They would be eliminated if Belgium beat Italy. Zidane will also be seeking a considerably improved display from his team at the Matmut Atlantique stadium after their disappointing performance in Italy.
France’s captain is set to return after being rested for the defeat. The Real Madrid player trained on Friday and is expected to be available for the meeting with Turkey and his team-mate Guler. With Dembele absent, he should move back into his preferred central position, having played elsewhere in the away match against Turkey.
Olise is likely to remain on the right wing, while Doue is not considered ready to start after failing to fully recover from a tooth injury. Barcola, who struggled on Thursday evening, could therefore keep his place, although he would return to his more familiar role on the flank.
Midfield changes under consideration
Zidane may also alter his midfield after France struggled to cope with Italy’s intense pressing. Cherki had limited influence while operating as a number eight, and Rabiot repeatedly lost control of the ball.
Emery is often discussed as a versatile option who can also play at right-back, but Zidane has consistently said he wants to use him in midfield. The PSG academy product could now be given the opportunity to demonstrate what he can offer in that position.
Camavinga is another player in contention for a return to the starting line-up after impressing during the previous training camp.
The most immediate selection issue in defence is who will replace Upamecano. The Bayern player conceded a penalty in the second half against Italy before leaving the training camp for “family reasons”. He will not be available at the Matmut Atlantique stadium.
Konate is in strong form and is a leading candidate to take his place, although Yoro also has a case after producing an excellent performance against Belgium at the Stade de France in early October.
The full-back positions remain another concern for France. Gusto endured a difficult night at San Siro and was replaced by Sael Kumbedi. The Wolfsburg player, who was called up at the last minute, could make his first start on the right.
Andy Diouf, who replaced Adrien Truffert in the 77th minute against Italy, is among the contenders to begin on the left.
Whatever team Zidane selects, France must produce a markedly different performance against Turkey to recover from the defeat in Italy.
