Marcus Thuram, in good form at Inter Milan, remains on the Blues bench. Didier Deschamps delays before offering him his chance in the World Cup, despite his solid performances at club.
Marcus Thuram once again took his place on the bench during the French team's last training session before the World Cup. Didier Deschamps maintains a measured approach towards the Inter Milan player, despite his recent run of strong performances at club. The Blues coach confirmed his caution, refusing to give in to media or sporting pressure to line up Thuram straight away.
Since his return to Serie A, the striker has had a string of starts and goals, proving his offensive value. However, Deschamps relies on collective experience rather than an individual poker move. This strategy is part of a risk management logic, where each player must prove his ability to adapt to the team before being crowned starter.
Observers point out that Thuram, 26, has not yet played a full match with the Blues since his return to the selection in 2023. His playing time remains limited, even during friendly matches. Deschamps seems to favor gradual integration, despite expectations around Thuram's versatile profile.
This approach reflects a recent trend in French football, where coaches focus on tactical maturity rather than raw talent, especially in the run-up to a major tournament. Another key element lies in the competition within the French attack. With players like Mbappé, Griezmann or Dembélé, Thuram must not only convince Deschamps, but also stand out in a group already rich in offensive options.
His profile, more physical and less technical than some of his teammates, requires a tactical adaptation which takes time. Deschamps, known for his pragmatism, prefers to avoid surprises by fielding a player whose cohesion with the collective is not yet complete. This caution can also be explained by the recent history of the French team in the World Cup.
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Deschamps opted for a stable framework, with experienced players like Giroud or Coman, rather than younger or fit profiles. This strategy bore fruit, allowing the Blues to reach the final. Thuram, although talented, embodies a riskier bet, and Deschamps seems to want to reproduce this logic of stability.
Finally, the psychological dimension plays a significant role. Thuram, aware of the pressure surrounding his situation, must manage his own stress while adapting to a group where egos are already well established. Deschamps, who has always favored mental balance in his choices, could wait for the player to fully find his place before offering him a start.
This approach, although criticizable by some, is part of a philosophy where collective performance takes precedence over individual achievements. Asked about the situation, a member of the technical staff indicated: *“Marcus has everything to succeed, but Didier wants to avoid unnecessary risks. »* **What's next:** Deschamps' decision could be tested in the Blues' first match against Australia on November 21.
Thuram could come into play during the game if the score allows it, but a start remains uncertain. Supporters will have to wait to see the Inter Milan player in the starting lineup. A possible tenure could occur in the event of injury or poor performance of a starter, but nothing is guaranteed at this stage. Read at Le Parisien Sport
The management of Marcus Thuram by Didier Deschamps illustrates a cautious strategy as a major tournament approaches. The coach is banking on collective stability rather than an individual bet, despite Thuram's obvious form at club. This approach could pay off if the Blues aim for the title, but it also exposes Deschamps to criticism in the event of disappointing results. The debate on the balance between experience and potential is more relevant than ever. It also raises the question of managing egos in a group where there are many stars, and where each decision can become a subject of media controversy. Finally, this caution reflects a broader trend in modern football, where coaches favor tactical cohesion and risk management rather than media stunts.
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