Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kanté have not been included in France's final squad for the matches against Ireland (Euro qualification) and Germany (friendly).
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At a press conference, coach Didier Deschamps explained how he came to the decision to leave the two renowned midfielders at home. 'Pogba? His return to the field is the beginning of a long road.
We need to be patient. I believe in him and his ability to return to his best level. When he's back at his best, he'll be an important contender for the French team again.'
Regarding Kanté, who made the switch from Chelsea to Saudi's Al-Ittihad this summer, Deschamps offered a similar explanation. 'He has just had a nearly blank year. That's not easy. N'Golo can still be selected at any time. But for this gathering, I've chosen to go with the younger players who have already met the expectations of the top level.'
France is leading Group B in Euro qualification quite comfortably. Greece, which will face the Netherlands next Friday, is six points behind but has played one game less. The Dutch national team has played two games less and is currently in fourth place.
Updated: 04:18, 31 Aug 2023
