Raphael Varane and Olivier Giroud START for France as Adrien Rabiot returns, with their virus-stricken side at full strength for the World Cup final against Argentina
France are at full strength for the World Cup final against Argentina, with Olivier Giroud and Raphael Varane both in the side.
Les Bleus have been dealing with a virus outbreak in their squad in the build-up to the game, with Varane and Giroud previously emerging as doubts in what was a worrying development for manager Didier Deschamps.
Both players are fit to start, however, while Adrien Rabiot – who missed the semi-final win over Morocco due to illness – is back in the lineup. As for Argentina, Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez lead the attack once more.
Olivier Giroud (left) and Raphael Varane (right) have both been named in the France side for the World Cup final clash against Argentina
There was talk of a potential return to the side for Karim Benzema, whose name has remained in the France squad despite being out with injury throughout.
The 34-year-old is not involved, however, and reportedly won’t be in attendance at all, having rejected an offer from French president Emmanuel Macron to join him on his presidential plane to Qatar. Midfielder Paul Pogba, who has also missed the tournament due to injury, will be watching from the stands, however.
Meanwhile, midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni and left back Theo Hernandez, who missed Friday’s training session due to injuries, though taking part on Saturday, are in the side.
Klyian Mbappe once again starts on the left – despite training down the middle on Saturday – with Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele and Giroud completing the attack.
And starting next to Varane in defence is Dayot Upamecano, who comes back into the team after missing the semi-final, with an impressive Ibrahima Konate dropping out.
Confirmed France XI: Lloris – Kounde, Varane, Upamecano, T.Hernandez – Griezmann, Tchouameni, Rabiot – Dembele, Mbappe, Giroud.
Midfielder Adrien Rabiot is back in the France XI after missing the semi-final against Morocco
As for Argentina, the team news is not yet confirmed, but manager Lionel Scaloni is expected to stick with a back-four in defence, with Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi the pairing.
Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Leandro Paredes are expected retain their place in midfield, meanwhile, with Angel Di Maria again on the bench.
Full-backs Marcos Acuna and Gonzalo Montiel are back after missing the Croatia semi-final through suspension. Nahuel Molina should keep his place at right-back, though, while Nicolas Tagliafico could drop out for Acuna.
More to follow…
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