France midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni ruled out of World Cup round of 16

France will be without midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni for its round‑of‑16 match against Paraguay on 4 July 2026 after he suffered a muscle injury during training on Friday. Coach Didier Deschamps plans to start Manu Koné in his place, keeping the midfield partnership with Adrien Rabiot.

The injury, a strain in the adductor muscle, is expected to keep Tchouaméni out for about four days, meaning he could miss the Paraguay game and possibly the quarter‑final if France advance. Tchouaméni had featured in three matches at the tournament, totaling 270 minutes and providing an assist. The match will be played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, United States.