Didier Deschamps, the head coach of the French national football team, has offered insight into his recent call-ups for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku and defender Wesley Fofana ahead of the upcoming international fixtures. Both players have experienced significant challenges due to injuries over the past few seasons, but Deschamps has praised their resilience and the qualities they bring to the team, explaining how their performances and return to form have earned them their place in the national squad.
Christopher Nkunku’s Journey Back to the France Squad
Christopher Nkunku’s journey with the French national team has been marked by both success and setbacks. The versatile forward was a regular fixture in the French squad throughout 2022, after earning his first senior call-up. However, an untimely injury caused him to miss the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a significant blow for the player who was expected to play an important role in the tournament.
Nkunku’s injuries continued to disrupt his progress. After making a strong return to the national team in the summer of 2023, where he added two more appearances to his growing tally of caps, Nkunku suffered a knee injury during pre-season with Chelsea. This injury required surgery, forcing him to miss most of the 2023/24 campaign. Despite these challenges, Nkunku’s tenacity and determination to return to the field remained unwavering.
Nkunku managed to return for Chelsea midway through the season, making ten appearances before another setback saw him sidelined again. He eventually returned to action for the final four matches of the campaign, showing flashes of his undoubted talent. Despite this, his limited playing time during the season led to his omission from France’s Euro 2024 squad, and he was also not selected for the national team in September of that year.
However, things began to change for Nkunku as he worked his way back to fitness. His return to regular game time in the summer of 2024 caught the attention of Didier Deschamps, who has been monitoring his progress closely. Deschamps, speaking at a media conference, explained his decision to recall the Chelsea forward, highlighting Nkunku’s qualities and resilience in overcoming his injury struggles.
“There was a time he wasn’t with us because, unfortunately, he continued getting little injuries which prevented him from having continuity on the pitch,” Deschamps said. “He hasn’t had excessive game time at Chelsea, but each time he has played, he has shown plenty of energy. Injuries have put a significant brake on his progression, but it seems like he is now rid of that. What must follow is time on the pitch and good performances that will allow him to return to his best level.”
Nkunku’s return to form has been impressive, especially given the adversity he has faced. During Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States, Nkunku was a standout performer, providing a glimpse of his potential impact on the team. Despite competition for a starting spot with players like Nicolas Jackson, who has started every Premier League match for Chelsea this season, Nkunku has made a notable impact across all competitions. The forward has scored six goals in nine games, with only four of those appearances being starts. This means that Nkunku has averaged a goal every 57 minutes, a testament to his clinical finishing and ability to make a difference when given the opportunity.
For Deschamps, Nkunku’s return to the national team is not just about the statistics. It’s also about his ability to bring energy and creativity to the squad. Known for his versatility, Nkunku can operate in multiple attacking roles, making him a valuable asset for the French team. Whether deployed as a central forward, a winger, or even as a playmaker, Nkunku’s technical skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability provide Deschamps with additional tactical options as France looks ahead to their Nations League fixtures against Israel and Belgium.
Wesley Fofana’s Road to Redemption
Wesley Fofana’s inclusion in the French squad also marks a significant milestone in the defender’s career, as he has had his own battles with injuries. The Chelsea centre-back missed more than a year of competitive football due to a serious injury, which kept him out of action for much of the 2023/24 season. However, like Nkunku, Fofana has shown great resilience in his recovery and has returned to top form since the summer of 2024.
Deschamps, aware of Fofana’s potential and the quality he brings to the defense, was quick to recall the player to the national team when he became available in September. However, after consulting with both Fofana and Chelsea, it was decided that the defender would remain with his club during the September international window. This decision was made to allow Fofana to continue his recovery and avoid overexertion, as he was still managing his return from a long period of inactivity.
Despite not being involved in France’s matches against Italy and Belgium in September, Fofana’s performances for Chelsea have been closely monitored by Deschamps and his coaching staff. The French manager spoke highly of the defender’s progress, noting that Fofana’s ability to return to competitive action and perform at a high level is a testament to his work ethic and determination.
“He has a programme which is adapted at the moment where he plays the Premier League matches, and he has clearly responded,” Deschamps explained. “He is coming off a period of inactivity, but since last month he was able to continue playing matches and to perform.”
Fofana’s return to the national team is a well-deserved reward for the 23-year-old, who has been regarded as one of the most promising defensive talents in European football. Known for his pace, strength, and composure on the ball, Fofana has the potential to become a mainstay in the French defense for years to come. His ability to read the game and make crucial interventions has made him a key player for Chelsea, and Deschamps will be hoping that Fofana can bring the same level of performance to the national team as they prepare for their upcoming Nations League fixtures.
France’s Nations League Campaign
As France looks ahead to their Nations League matches, Deschamps will be hoping that both Nkunku and Fofana can contribute to the team’s success. The French squad is filled with talent across the board, with players like Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Kingsley Coman providing firepower in attack, while the likes of Ibrahima Konaté, Jules Koundé, and Théo Hernandez offer solidity in defense.
The matches against Israel and Belgium will be crucial for France as they aim to continue their strong start to the Nations League campaign. Deschamps has emphasized the importance of these fixtures, particularly in the context of building momentum ahead of future international tournaments. With a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents, France has the depth and quality to compete at the highest level.
Nkunku’s ability to provide goals and creativity, combined with Fofana’s defensive prowess, could prove vital for France in their upcoming matches. Both players have had to overcome significant obstacles to reach this point, but their inclusion in the squad is a testament to their determination and the trust that Deschamps has in their abilities.
For Nkunku, the focus will be on regaining full match fitness and building on his impressive goal-scoring form for Chelsea. His versatility in attack could make him a key player for Deschamps, especially in tight matches where his ability to create chances and finish them off could make the difference.
For Fofana, the challenge will be to continue his defensive solidity and ensure that he remains fit and available for selection. With competition for places in the French defense, Fofana will need to maintain his high level of performance to establish himself as a regular starter.
As France prepares for their Nations League fixtures, the return of Nkunku and Fofana adds depth and quality to an already talented squad. Deschamps’ decision to recall these players highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work, qualities that both Nkunku and Fofana have demonstrated in abundance during their respective recoveries.
