According to Footmercato, France coach Zidane is expected to make several changes to the starting lineup before the final UEFA Nations League group stage match against Turkey.
France will face their final UEFA Nations League group stage match under some pressure. After a 3-1 loss in Italy last week, Les Bleus can still secure a quarter-final spot with a draw against Turkey in Bordeaux on Monday, Beijing Time (CET). If they lose, France, currently second in Group A Division 1, will need Belgium to fail to beat Italy to avoid dropping to third place and being eliminated from the competition. However, beyond the points standings, Zidane's team needs to deliver a more convincing performance in Bordeaux.
To this end, the France coach can rely on the return of their captain. The Real Madrid player was rested against Italy and participated in training this Friday. He is expected to be available for the match against Turkey and his teammate Güler. In the absence of Dembélé, he will return to his preferred central position, unlike the away leg against Turkey. Alongside him, Olise is expected to continue on the right wing. However, on the left, Doué, whose tooth injury has not fully healed, is not fit enough to start. Barcola, who struggled on Thursday evening, might therefore retain his place, returning to his more accustomed wide role.
Who will replace Upamecano?
Several changes are also possible in midfield. The France midfield struggled under Italy's high-intensity pressing. Cherki, deployed as an No. 8 by Zidane, lacked influence, while Rabiot repeatedly showed poor ball control. Although Emery is often mentioned for his versatility and ability to play right-back, Zidane has consistently expressed his desire to see him in midfield. The PSG academy product could use this match against Turkey to showcase his capabilities in midfield. Camavinga, who performed exceptionally well in the last training camp, could also return to the starting eleven.
Finally, there's the question of Upamecano's replacement. The Bayern player conceded a penalty in the second half and has since left the training camp for "family reasons," and will not be present at the Matmut Atlantique stadium. Konate, who is in good form, is a candidate to replace him, although Yoro also has strong claims – he put in an excellent performance against Belgium at the Stade de France in early October. On the flanks, a major weakness for this France team, Gusto had a nightmare in San Siro and was subsequently replaced by Saël Kumbedi. The Wolfsburg player, called up at the last minute, could make his first start on the right, while Andy Diouf – who replaced Adrien Truffert in the 77th minute – is a candidate to start on the left. One thing is certain: Les Bleus must show a completely different face to erase the bad memories of the Italy defeat.