France's midfield reshuffle as Tchouaméni doubts Paraguay match

Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, 26, left Friday’s training after feeling thigh discomfort and is now a serious doubt for France’s World Cup last‑16 clash against Paraguay at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, making his participation in a potential 2026 quarter‑final unlikely.

He will miss tonight’s last‑16 encounter with Paraguay, confirming his absence from the squad. AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné is slated to partner Adrien Rabiot in France’s double midfield pivot. The 26‑year‑old, who plays for Real Madrid, has been a regular in Les Bleus’ midfield.

An MRI scan on Friday examined the extent of the thigh problem. The scan identified a minor lesion that requires only minimal healing time, further reducing his chances of featuring in a potential quarter‑final.

Medical assessments suggest the issue is more serious than initially believed. France’s No. 8 is therefore unlikely to be available should the team progress.

If France overcome Paraguay, they will meet either Canada or Morocco on Thursday, July 9, at Boston’s Gillette Stadium. The upcoming knockout match is part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field hosts the current round‑of‑16 tie. The report was compiled by Bastien Cheval.