France vs Germany: Cherki’s Rise, Defensive Woes & the Battle for Pride in the Nations League

As France prepares to face Germany in Stuttgart for the third-place match in the UEFA Nations League, the stakes may appear low on paper—but national pride, future reputations, and tactical experiments are all very much on the line. For Didier Deschamps’ France, this clash represents a crossroads: a moment to both heal from a stinging defeat to Spain and to spotlight a new face of Les Bleus—Rayan Cherki, a 21-year-old creative spark who is quickly becoming impossible to ignore.

A Match No One Wanted—But Can’t Afford to Lose

Both teams arrive at this consolation match disappointed. France were ripped apart by Spain in a humbling semifinal loss, conceding four goals in just 30 minutes—a rare collapse from a team renowned for its defensive structure. Germany, on the other hand, are still reeling from their own defeat against Portugal. Their performance lacked bite, composure, and direction, raising serious questions about the squad's mental and tactical readiness ahead of the upcoming European Championship, which they will host.

While third-place matches often struggle to capture the intensity of finals, this one promises intrigue. The historical rivalry between France and Germany adds spice, and both coaches have clear motivations to test new ideas, shift formations, and give key minutes to emerging talent.

Rayan Cherki: The Unpredictable Genius France Needs

France’s most exciting development in recent months has come in the form of Rayan Cherki, the young Olympique Lyonnais midfielder who’s now breaking into the national setup. Though not a typical attacking midfielder or a conventional central playmaker, Cherki thrives in the "in-between" spaces. His versatility, unpredictability, and raw creativity give him an edge that France has been missing in its more rigid midfield setups.

Deschamps has historically been cautious with younger players, but Cherki’s rise has been impossible to overlook. Since February, the 21-year-old has directly contributed to 24 goals—with 9 goals and 15 assists in just 21 matches for Lyon. Statistically, he's among Europe’s most effective playmakers in that span, topping charts for completed passes into the box, progressive carries, and expected assists among wingers and attacking midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues.

In today’s match, Cherki starts behind Kylian Mbappé in a 4-2-3-1 formation, flanked by Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani. Protected by a defensive midfield pairing of Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot, Cherki is free to roam and orchestrate. The goal: unlock Germany’s backline with his vision, short dribbles, and incisive passing.

Mbappé’s Mentorship: Grooming a Successor?

What’s also notable is how Kylian Mbappé, France’s captain and star, has taken Cherki under his wing. During training, reporters noted the two spending significant time together, with Mbappé offering guidance and camaraderie. In a press conference, the PSG forward remarked on Cherki’s talent:

“His qualities are obvious. We’ve always believed in him. Now it’s about making him feel confident and free to play his game. We’re here to help him shine.”

Such support from France’s leader bodes well for team cohesion, and indicates that Deschamps and his senior squad members are open to transitioning toward a more youthful, attacking style of play.

France’s Defensive Identity in Crisis

Yet, even with Cherki’s rise, not all is well in the French camp. The defensive solidity that once defined Deschamps' side is beginning to crack. In just three matches this year, France has conceded seven goals—a worrying stat that mirrors a similarly leaky defense from a decade ago in 2015.

Against Spain, the French backline looked lost and overwhelmed. Today’s lineup includes changes meant to address that vulnerability. Loïc Badé makes his debut at center-back, while Lucas Hernández, Gusto, and Lucas Digne complete the backline. Digne, in particular, is expected to play a key role; only a few players, including Germany’s Joshua Kimmich, have delivered more assists than the Aston Villa left-back in this year’s Nations League. His set-piece delivery may be one of France’s most reliable weapons today.

Deschamps’ Tinkering and Tactical Reset

Deschamps has opted for eight changes from the semifinal lineup. Only Mike Maignan, Rabiot, and Mbappé retain their spots, a clear signal that he’s using this match to experiment before deciding on a Euro 2028 core squad. The goal is to find a new balance—one that retains France’s attacking potency while restoring the defensive structure they’ve long relied on.

It’s no secret that Deschamps is contemplating his future, with rumors suggesting he may step down after the 2028 World Cup. If that’s true, this transitional phase could determine both his legacy and France’s trajectory post-Deschamps.

Germany’s Response to Pressure

Germany, meanwhile, enters the match needing to save face. Their defeat to Portugal was not just a loss—it was a psychological blow. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has made four changes to inject energy and competitiveness. Raum, Gross, Adeyemi, and Füllkrug are all included in the starting XI, with hopes that a refreshed frontline can spark momentum.

The pressure is real. Germany’s fans are growing impatient, and their expectations for the Euro are sky-high. Today’s game may not erase recent disappointments, but a win could go a long way toward rebuilding belief.

Matchday Lineups

🇫🇷 France Starting XI:

Maignan; Gusto, Badé, Lucas Hernández, Digne; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Kolo Muani, Cherki, Thuram; Mbappé

🇩🇪 Germany Starting XI:

Ter Stegen; Kimmich, Tah, Koch, Raum; Goretzka, Gross; Woltemade, Wirtz, Adeyemi; Füllkrug