Hugo Ekitiké, donning the No.9 jersey for France during this international break, is poised to make his first start for the national team later tonight against Azerbaijan.
He may team up with Kylian Mbappé in a central role for Les Bleus in their FIFA World Cup qualifier. Despite initial concerns about Mbappé’s fitness due to missing training earlier this week, he appears to be in good shape and is expected to start.
Additionally, Malo Gusto is likely to start at right-back, stepping in for the regular choice, Jules Koundé. In midfield, Juventus’ Khéphren Thuram may feature, and there’s a possibility of a surprising inclusion with Kingsley Coman starting on the left. Meanwhile, it is anticipated that William Saliba will pair with Dayot Upamecano in central defense, with Ibrahima Konaté expected to remain on the bench.
Predicted France Line-up vs Azerbaijan
Mike Maignan; Théo Hernandez, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Malo Gusto; Kingsley Coman, Khéphren Thuram, Adrien Rabiot, Michael Olise; Hugo Ekitiké, Kylian Mbappé. (L’Éq)