Aurelien Tchouameni will miss Saturday’s World Cup last-16 match between France and Paraguay in Philadelphia because of a thigh injury, according to French newspaper L’Equipe.
The report said France will likely replace the 26-year-old with Manu Kone. France have not confirmed the injury. Reuters said the French Football Federation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Tchouameni started three of France’s four matches in the tournament and held a regular place in midfield during the group’s run to the knockout stage.
France entered the last 16 with four wins from four matches. They finished top of Group I with maximum points, then beat Sweden 3-0 in the round of 32.
Tchouameni usually gives France control in central areas. He breaks up attacks and moves the ball forward quickly from deep positions. If Kone starts, France may lose some of Tchouameni’s physical presence and defensive cover in midfield.
France now head into the Paraguay match with a likely change in one of the key areas of Didier Deschamps’ side, midfield balance and defensive protection in front of the back line.
