Didier Deschamps
January 2026
Deschamps rejected criticism focused on Mbappe’s running metrics, saying he will not cover “11 kilometres per match” but can still be a true captain and decisive match-winner. He framed it as a tactical trade-off: you do not demand high-volume defensive running that drains the explosiveness Mbappe needs in the final third.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
January 2026
Manchester United are monitoring Jean-Philippe Mateta if he becomes available, with Crystal Palace talks over a new deal reported to have stalled. United are not planning a January striker buy but could move if conditions change. Palace previously rejected bids up to £50m and Mateta’s stance is shaped by ambitions to play Champions League football. Palace’s situation is also tied to uncertainty around Oliver Glasner’s future, while Brennan Johnson’s arrival is set to boost their attack.
Didier Deschamps (France)
September 2025
Didier Deschamps admitted lifting his locker-room phone ban and shortening team talks, saying old methods lost effect after criticism from Euro 2024 and Nations League disappointments. The France manager conceded modern players need more freedom and personal connection. By aligning with club norms and cutting team talks from 45 to 10 minutes, Deschamps hopes to rebuild trust and adapt his authority to evolving dressing-room dynamics.
Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool, France)
August 2025
Hugo Ekitike has been omitted from Didier Deschamps’ latest France squad despite scoring three goals in three games since joining Liverpool. His wait for a senior international debut continues despite making an electric start to life at Anfield. Deschamps left out Ekitike for September qualifiers, preferring other options despite his sharp form. While the 23-year-old continues to impress in England, competition for attacking spots in the France squad remains fierce ahead of World Cup qualification.
Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)
August 2025
Hugo Ekitike is being considered for a first France call-up after scoring on his Liverpool debut against Crystal Palace and again versus Bournemouth. Deschamps could select him for September’s qualifiers, potentially at the expense of Randal Kolo Muani, whose PSG future remains uncertain. Ekitike’s sharp impact since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt has impressed both Liverpool staff and Deschamps’ camp. With Kolo Muani unsettled amid Juventus interest, the French coach may reward Ekitike’s form by handing him an international debut in crucial World Cup qualifiers.