France's Path to Euro 2024: Preparation Matches Begin
The French national team is gearing up for Euro 2024, starting with preparatory matches against Luxembourg and Canada. The squad, under the guidance of coach Didier Deschamps, will begin their preparations with a match against Luxembourg on June 5 at the Saint-Symphorien stadium in Metz. This will be followed by a game against Canada in Bordeaux on June 9. These matches are crucial for selecting the best players and evaluating their form.
Key Players in the Spotlight
All eyes will be on N'Golo Kanté as the midfielder returns to the national team after a long absence. The coaching staff aims to gauge his physical condition and readiness for the tournament. Kylian Mbappé is also under scrutiny, especially given his recent move to Real Madrid. Other important players, such as Mike Maignan and Koundé, will also have key roles in these matches. The matches offer a chance for the players who have had uneven club performances, like Upamecano and Konaté, to regain confidence.
A New Approach for French Team Travel
In a significant shift, the French team traveled by TGV train to Metz, a move aimed at reducing the team's carbon footprint. This marks the first time since Didier Deschamps took over as coach that the team has opted for rail travel for an international match. The decision aligns with the French Federation's goals of sustainability. Despite minor logistical challenges, the journey was smooth, and it set a positive example for future trips.
- This period of preparation will be critical for the French squad as they face a mix of both seasoned players and newcomers. The team will not be taking any risks with players arriving late from club duties or those recently recovering from injuries.
- Aurélien Tchouaméni, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga, who were busy with Real Madrid, will miss the Luxembourg game but are expected to join the team for further preparations before their first official match against Austria.
- The friendlies will serve as a rehearsal for the main competition, providing **Didier Deschamps** with the opportunity to test different combinations and strategies, ensuring that the team is in peak condition for the Euro.
