Why is Aurelien Tchouameni benched in Paraguay vs France FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash?
Aurelien Tchouameni was named on the bench for the Paraguay vs France match tonight.
France took on Paraguay in their Round of 16 fixture in the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on July 4. Les Bleus are the overwhelming favourites in tonight’s match and have fielded a strong starting lineup. However, one key name is missing from the playing XI, with Aurelien Tchouameni featuring on the bench.
The Real Madrid midfielder was the biggest name not to start the match for Didier Deschamps’ side as they seek a place in this edition’s quarter-finals. In his place, the head coach has opted for AS Roma’s Manu Kone, who is paired with Adrien Rabiot in midfield.
Michael Olise, who leads the assists charts in the World Cup, starts in an advanced role behind Kylian Mbappe, who is seeking the Golden Boot. Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola start on the flanks.
Also Read: France starting lineup vs Paraguay confirmed
Why is Aurelien Tchouameni not starting?
According to media reports, Tchouameni suffered discomfort in his thigh during training on Friday. As a result, he will be out for four days. Thus, he will likely not play any part in the match against Paraguay at all.
Reports claimed that the 26-year-old should be fit enough to return to the matchday squad for the quarter-final match, where Morocco are waiting for the winner of tonight’s fixture. It remains to be seen whether he will start that game or come in from the bench, should Les Bleus progress to the next stage.
Why is Aurelien Tchouameni benched vs Paraguay?
He was benched because of thigh discomfort suffered during training before the match.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.