France will start Tuesday evening without a "disappointed" and "frustrated" Antoine Griezmann against Poland, reports L’Équipe. Kylian Mbappé returns to the starting lineup after recovering from his nose injury.
Griezmann played in the left attacking zone for France on Friday evening. The veteran frequently alternated offensively with Adrien Rabiot and had several chances himself, which he handled poorly. His performance drew criticism, but after the match, Didier Deschamps came to his defense.
"He has had a busy season with high-intensity matches. It's not easy in the midfield," said the French coach about one of his star players, highlighting Griezmann's heavy workload and the physical demands placed on him.
For these reasons, Deschamps is now choosing to rest Griezmann against Poland. This decision keeps the French midfield intact with Aurélien Tchouaméni, N’Golo Kanté, and Adrien Rabiot, allowing Kylian Mbappé to return to the lineup after recovering from his nose injury. Mbappé's return is seen as a significant boost to the team's attacking options, given his speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability.
According to L’Équipe, Griezmann is "disappointed" and "frustrated" with the coach's decision to rest him. The French vice-captain reportedly does not feel he needs rest and is eager to contribute on the field. Griezmann's competitive nature and desire to play in every match underline his commitment to the national team, but Deschamps is prioritizing the overall strategy and the physical well-being of his players.
Griezmann has been a cornerstone of the French team for many years, known for his creativity, work rate, and ability to score crucial goals. His absence from the starting lineup will be felt, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up. Deschamps' decision to rest Griezmann could be seen as a precautionary measure to ensure he remains fresh for the latter stages of the tournament.
The probable lineup for France against Poland reflects Deschamps' tactical adjustments. Mike Maignan is expected to start in goal, with Théo Hernandez, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Jules Koundé forming the defensive line. The midfield trio of Adrien Rabiot, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and N’Golo Kanté remains unchanged, ensuring stability and control in the center of the pitch. In attack, Marcus Thuram and Ousmane Dembélé will flank Kylian Mbappé, providing pace and creativity on the wings.
This match is crucial for France as they aim to secure a positive result and maintain their momentum in the tournament. Resting key players like Griezmann while reintegrating Mbappé is part of Deschamps' strategy to manage the squad's fitness and optimize performance. The French team will need to be at their best to overcome a determined Polish side and continue their pursuit of tournament glory.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on how Deschamps' decisions play out on the field and whether France can deliver a strong performance without one of their most experienced and influential players in the starting lineup. The depth and talent of the squad will be tested, and the outcome will provide valuable insights into their readiness for the challenges ahead.
This decision also highlights Deschamps' confidence in his squad's depth. Players like Marcus Thuram and Ousmane Dembélé will have the chance to showcase their abilities and make a case for more playing time. For Mbappé, returning to the lineup is a chance to reestablish himself as the team's primary offensive threat. His ability to change the course of a game with his speed and finishing will be crucial against Poland.
France's preparation for the match against Poland has focused on maintaining their defensive solidity while enhancing their offensive output. The inclusion of Mbappé is expected to add a new dimension to their attack, one that will be crucial in breaking down a well-organized Polish defense. The match is also an opportunity for Deschamps to experiment with different tactical setups and player combinations, which could be beneficial in the later stages of the tournament.
As fans eagerly await the match, the focus will be on whether France can secure a victory and solidify their position in the tournament. Griezmann's rest could prove to be a masterstroke if it leads to a rejuvenated performance in the subsequent matches. The game against Poland is more than just a group stage match; it is a test of France's depth, strategy, and ability to adapt under pressure.
