As the November international break approaches, Didier Deschamps has confirmed the 23-player squad for France’s upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel and Italy. However, there has been a significant change to the roster due to an injury concern. Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana, who was included in the squad, has been forced to withdraw due to knee discomfort, despite playing the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s recent match against Arsenal. The French Football Federation (FFF) officially announced his withdrawal on Monday, stating that the defender will not take part in the November gathering with the French national team.
Fofana, who had been recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, had been expected to contribute to France’s defense during this important international break. However, after experiencing discomfort in his knee, it became clear that his body was not yet fully ready for the demands of international football. The FFF’s statement clarified that Fofana’s condition would not allow him to participate in the upcoming Nations League matches, forcing Deschamps to make a last-minute adjustment to the squad.
In response to Fofana’s withdrawal, Deschamps has called up Inter Milan defender Benjamin Pavard as a replacement. Pavard’s return to the French squad is noteworthy, as it marks his first call-up in three international windows. The 28-year-old has been out of favor with Deschamps in recent months, with the coach opting for other defensive options. However, with Fofana unavailable, Pavard has now been brought back into the fold as a reinforcement for France’s defense.
Pavard’s return is seen as a positive move for both the player and the French team. The versatile defender, who has been a key figure in previous tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup, will bring valuable experience to the squad, especially with the challenging fixtures ahead. His adaptability across the backline makes him a reliable option for Deschamps as he prepares for France’s encounters with Israel and Italy, two crucial opponents in the Nations League.
The French squad is expected to gather at the national training center, Clairefontaine, at 4 pm on Monday, November 11. Pavard, who is currently based in Italy with Inter Milan, will join the group later in the evening. His arrival will be a boost for Deschamps, as the coach looks to solidify his defensive options for the upcoming matches.
The Nations League fixtures against Israel and Italy will be a significant test for the French team, as they look to maintain their position in the competition and secure crucial points. With Fofana’s withdrawal and Pavard’s return, Deschamps now has a reshuffled defensive line, and all eyes will be on how the team adjusts to these changes. France’s fans will be hoping that this new look defense can deliver the results needed to keep their Nations League campaign on track.
This development comes just days after the surprise omission of star forward Kylian Mbappé from the squad, adding further intrigue to Deschamps’ selection choices for the international break. While the reasons behind Mbappé’s absence remain a topic of discussion, the focus now shifts to how the team will adapt in the absence of both Fofana and the PSG forward.
With the match against Israel scheduled first, followed by the clash with Italy, France will need to be at their best to ensure they remain competitive in the Nations League. Deschamps will no doubt be relying on the experience of Pavard, as well as other senior players like Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane, to steer the team through this crucial phase of the competition.
As always, the French public will be watching closely to see how the national team performs and whether Deschamps’ tactical decisions will pay off. The addition of Pavard to the squad brings a sense of stability and experience to the defense, and his return to the fold will no doubt be welcomed by both the coach and his teammates.
