Media Kampung – 21 Maret 2026 | French coach Didier Deschamps announced that forward Randal Kolo Muani will receive a final assessment before the World Cup squad is locked.
The decision follows Muani’s recent dip in form and a growing pool of attackers.
Deschamps said the competition will be open, inviting players like Karim Benzema, Antoine Griezmann and emerging talents to prove their worth.
He stressed that merit, not reputation, will decide the final eleven.
Muani, who scored decisive goals for France in the 2022 World Cup, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances at Napoli.
His last appearance for Les Bleus ended in a substitute cameo against Austria.
The French federation has also been monitoring the eligibility of naturalised players worldwide, after several associations faced passport disputes.
The case of Dean James, a Dutch‑born full‑back who obtained Indonesian citizenship, illustrates the complexity.
James, currently with Go Ahead Eagles, had his Indonesian passport challenged by NAC Breda, prompting a complaint to the KNVB.
The Dutch FA described the issue as “complex and requiring time”.
Similar disputes have emerged in other federations, forcing national coaches to reassess squad selections amid legal uncertainties.
Deschamps warned that any ambiguity could jeopardise a player’s participation in Qatar‑2026 qualifiers.
The French squad’s attacking options now include Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and the in‑form Olivier Giroud, who has reclaimed his scoring touch in Ligue 1.
Their form will be measured alongside Muani’s fitness.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian national team is grappling with its own naturalisation program, fielding several diaspora players in the upcoming FIFA Series 2026.
The controversy around James has heightened scrutiny on similar cases.
The Indonesian football association announced that players such as Elkan Baggott and Marc Kluk will feature, despite ongoing debates about their eligibility.
Analysts argue that clear regulations are essential for competitive integrity.
In Europe, other headlines have captured attention, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s withdrawal from Portugal’s match due to a lingering injury.
The veteran’s absence underscores the impact of fitness on national team plans.
At the same time, Manchester United’s new stadium project is projected to cost up to Rp90 trillion, a figure that could strain the club’s finances.
Financial analysts warn that excessive debt may affect transfer budgets.
The French coaching staff also reviewed the performances of midfielders such as Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot, who have been pivotal in recent friendlies.
Their versatility adds depth to Deschamps’s tactical options.
Deschamps held a press conference in Paris, emphasizing that “every player will be evaluated on the pitch, not on paperwork”.
He cited the Dutch case as a reminder that administrative issues can disrupt preparation.
The French federation’s medical department released a report confirming that Muani’s hamstring is healing, but will require at least two weeks of full training before a final decision.
The timeline aligns with the next friendly against Germany.
Observers note that the competition for forward positions is intensifying, with young talents like Moussa Diaby and Amine Gouiri pushing for inclusion.
Their recent club performances have drawn praise from scouts.
The Indonesian controversy also involved the KNVB’s response, which called for a coordinated approach between FIFA and national associations to resolve passport disputes.
The statement highlighted the need for transparent criteria.
As the World Cup draw approaches, Deschamps’s open‑door policy may force him to make difficult cuts, potentially leaving Muani on the sidelines.
The coach reiterated that the ultimate goal is a cohesive squad ready for Qatar.
In summary, the French team’s final roster will reflect both on‑field merit and off‑field eligibility clarity, mirroring broader challenges faced by national sides worldwide.
The upcoming weeks will determine whether Muani secures his last chance.
Artikel ini dipublikasikan oleh Media Kampung.
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