France are being considered as one of the main contenders for the European Championships this summer.
Didier Deschamps is blessed with several world-class options across the pitch and it will be interesting to see if the World Champions can step it up and win the Euro 2020 this summer.
Here at Anytime football, we look at the predicted French starting lineup for the Euros.
Goalkeeper – Mike Maignan
Hugo Lloris is the most experienced goalkeeper in the side but he has not had a good season with Spurs. Maignan on the other hand has helped Lille win the league title and he has been one of the best keepers across Europe over the past year. He deserves the starting berth on merit.
Right-back – Benjamin Pavard
Pavard is naturally a centre back but he has been used as a full back for his country. The young defender has excelled with his passing and cross from the wide areas and he should reprise his role as the starting right-back this summer.
Centre backs – Raphael Varane and Jules Kounde
Kounde has been one of the best defenders in Spain this past season and he deserves to start ahead of Presnel Kimpembe this summer. Varane is undoubtedly the best centre back France have and he will be one of the first names on the team sheet.
Left-back – Lucas Hernandez
It will be a close call between Hernandez and Digne. Both have done well this past season but Hernandez is probably a better defender out of the two.
Deep lying midfielders – Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante
The midfielder duo more or less picks itself. Pogba and Kante were excellent in the World Cup and there is no reason why Deschamps needs to break that partnership.
Right-winger – Ousmane Dembele
The Barcelona winger should be a starter for France if he is fit. His pace and flair will cause problems for any defence in world football.
Attacking midfielder – Antoine Griezmann
Griezmann is one of France’ best players and he is likely to start in the hole behind the striker.
Left winger –Kylian Mbappe
The PSG winger is one of the best players on the planet and his selection is pretty much guaranteed.
Striker –Karim Benzema
If the Real Madrid striker is fit, he is likely to lead the line for the World Champions. Benzema is miles ahead of Giroud and Ben Yedder in terms of quality.
Formation (4-2-3-1): Maignan, Pavard, Varane, Kounde, Hernandez, Pogba, Kante, Mbappe, Griezmann, Dembele, Benzema
