France's Tactical Adjustments Under Didier Deschamps
As France prepares for their crucial clash with the Netherlands, many eyes are on head coach Didier Deschamps and his tactical approach.
While sweeping changes to the starting XI are unlikely, several strategic adjustments are worth considering.
Maintaining Formation Stability
Deschamps has built a solid foundation with his previous lineup featuring Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Kante, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Thuram; Mbappe.
This formation has provided consistency and resilience.
Major alterations are not expected, but some fine-tuning could be on the cards.
Olivier Giroud: The Logical Solution
A veteran presence in the squad, Olivier Giroud, who is set for a move to Major League Soccer, stands out as a natural option to slot into the starting XI.
At 37 years old, Giroud may not carry the entire team to glory in Germany, but he possesses enough experience and skill to make a significant impact in the current tight situation.
Marcus Thuram: Central Role Potential
Another option for Deschamps is to deploy Marcus Thuram in a central attacking position, moving Giroud to the bench and bringing in another player for the wide left role.
While Thuram, currently plying his trade at Inter, excels as part of a unit rather than as a lone frontman, his effectiveness centrally will hinge on the creativity levels within the team.
The primary concern is whether Thuram is clinical enough to shoulder the responsibility of the central role.
Bradley Barcola: A Wildcard Element
Younger talents can sometimes bring unpredictability, and 21-year-old Bradley Barcola is one such prospect. Following an impressive second half of his debut campaign with Paris Saint-Germain, Barcola could find his way into the starting XI.
Alternating with Mbappe on the left, Barcola has shown his ability to create opportunities, which either Thuram or Giroud would need to capitalize on.
Although somewhat raw, Barcola's inclusion could inject an element of surprise that the Dutch might struggle to counter.
Randal Kolo Muani: An Unlikely Alteration
Deploying Randal Kolo Muani is less likely, as it would necessitate a system change.
While pairing him with Thuram or Giroud could increase the work rate, it would not offer the same goal threat as Mbappe.
Given Deschamps' established system, this change is unlikely, making Kolo Muani more suited for a role off the bench.
Kingsley Coman: A Surprising Option
Another less predictable inclusion could be Kingsley Coman. Despite his inconsistent fitness and infrequent appearances under Deschamps, Coman was rewarded with a squad role.
With uncertainties surrounding his club future in Germany, Deschamps is likely to consider other options before turning to Coman.
Assessing Mbappe's Condition
A crucial factor for Deschamps is the fitness of Kylian Mbappe. Training with a wrap on his nose and spending part of the session apart from his teammates while medical staff evaluated his recovery, Mbappe's condition will be closely monitored in the next 24-48 hours.
This period will be crucial for mind games and finalizing strategies.
The Need for a Plan B
Should Mbappe be unable to start and lead Les Bleus against the Oranje, Deschamps will need a robust plan B. The game presents a significant opportunity for France to secure a round of 16 spot with a match to spare, and Deschamps will want to seize this chance.
While France's tactical changes might not be revolutionary, 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 will be enough to propel France to the pinnacle in Germany remains to be seen, but they could certainly help Deschamps navigate this challenging phase.