Jean-Philippe Mateta, the Crystal Palace striker, has finally received his first call-up to the senior France national squad, a deserved reward for his outstanding performances. This exciting news comes just ahead of France’s crucial World Cup qualifying matches this month against Azerbaijan and Iceland. His inclusion brings fresh talent to a star-studded team, which also sees the return of Christopher Nkunku and Eduardo Camavinga, as they aim to secure early qualification for the prestigious tournament. This is a significant milestone for the 28-year-old, whose consistent goal-scoring has clearly impressed national coach Didier Deschamps.
🌟 Mateta’s Well-Earned Recognition
Jean-Philippe Mateta’s impressive form for Crystal Palace has been impossible to ignore. The 28-year-old has been a key player, scoring four goals in ten games across all competitions this season, contributing to Palace’s unbeaten start in the Premier League. Last season, he netted 17 goals in all competitions and has scored a remarkable 32 Premier League goals since the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign. While he has previously represented France at Under-21 level and shined at the 2024 Paris Olympics with five goals, helping his team win a silver medal, this is his first call-up to the senior team. Coach Didier Deschamps praised Mateta, saying, “I like his profile… He has the ability to score goals.”
💪 Opportunities Amidst Absences
Mateta’s call-up, along with the recall of AC Milan forward Christopher Nkunku, comes partly due to several key players being sidelined by injury. Notable absences include Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Desire Doue. Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram and Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki are also out injured. Despite these setbacks, the squad maintains depth, with Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike and Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche retaining their spots after making their debuts last month, showcasing France’s rich pool of talent.
⚽ Midfield Reinforcement and Qualification Path
In the midfield, Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga makes a welcome return to the national squad, stepping in due to the suspension of his club colleague Aurelien Tchouameni. Camavinga hasn’t featured for France since March, so his return will be a boost. France, the 2018 World Cup winners and 2022 runners-up, currently lead Group D with a perfect six points after winning their first two qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland last month. Upcoming home and away matches against Azerbaijan (October 10th in Paris) and Iceland (three days later) offer a chance for Les Bleus to potentially secure top spot and early qualification for the World Cup, depending on other results.
France Squad List
Goalkeepers: Lucas Chevalier, Mike Maignan, Brice Samba Defenders: Lucas Digne, Malo Gusto, Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Manu Kone, Michael Olise, Adrien Rabiot, Khephren Thuram Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche, Bradley Barcola, Kingsley Coman, Hugo Ekitike, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Kylian Mbappe, Christopher Nkunku
