With a place in the quarterfinals at stake, Didier Deschamps would have wanted his strongest XI available.
Why isn’t Aurélien Tchouaméni playing for France against Paraguay? World Cup 2026 round of 16
Aurélien Tchouaméni is missing France’s World Cup 2026 round of 16 clash against Paraguay because of a thigh injury picked up in the final training session ahead of the game.
What injury does Tchouaméni have?
According to reports, the Real Madrid midfielder felt discomfort in his thigh during France’s last workout before Saturday’s knockout tie in Philadelphia. The issue is not being described as a major injury, but it is serious enough to rule him out of the match.
It is a significant blow for Didier Deschamps, with Tchouaméni having started three of France’s four games at the tournament so far. The 26-year-old has become one of the key figures in France’s midfield, offering balance and a physical presence in front of the defence.
Who replaces Tchouaméni for France?
Manu Koné is expected to replace him in the starting lineup against Paraguay, giving France a slightly different profile in midfield. Koné brings energy and ball-carrying ability, although Tchouaméni’s absence removes one of Deschamps’ most trusted organisers in the middle of the pitch.
France come into the game in strong form after winning all three Group I matches and then beating Sweden 3-0 in the round of 32. Paraguay, however, arrive full of belief after knocking out Germany on penalties, so Deschamps will not want any unnecessary disruption.
For now, there is no indication that Tchouaméni’s tournament is over. French outlet Le Parisien reported that the thigh discomfort is enough to keep him out of the Paraguay game, but not necessarily enough to put the rest of his World Cup at risk if France advance.
If France do progress as expected, they will face the winners of Canada and Morocco.
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