Inter striker Marcus Thuram has been ruled out of France’s World Cup Round of 32 meeting with Sweden after sustaining a muscular injury. France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed the setback on the eve of the match, which takes place in New Jersey on Tuesday.
Deschamps confirms muscular problem
Deschamps revealed that Thuram is suffering from a muscular issue that will prevent him from participating in the knockout tie. The France manager characterised the problem as a “small” muscular injury, though the full extent of the damage and potential recovery timeline remain unclear. The 26-year-old will not be named in the squad and will not take a place on the bench for the fixture against the Swedes.
The injury represents a frustrating interruption for Thuram, who arrives at the tournament following an outstanding campaign with his Italian club. He has established himself as a key figure in the Inter Milan attack, contributing significantly to their domestic success this term.
Minimal group stage involvement
Thuram has played a marginal role during France’s group stage campaign. He made a solitary substitute appearance in the 3-0 victory over Iraq, having been an unused substitute for the opening win against Senegal and the final group match against Norway. Les Bleus topped their section with three victories, defeating Senegal 3-1, Iraq 3-0 and Norway 4-1 to advance comfortably to the knockout phase.
France have demonstrated formidable attacking strength during the tournament, scoring ten goals across their three group matches while conceding only twice. Thuram’s absence will reduce Deschamps’ options in attack, though the team has shown considerable firepower even without significant contributions from the Inter striker so far.
Club season success
The forward arrives at the World Cup following an impressive domestic campaign with Inter Milan. Thuram contributed 18 goals and nine assists in 44 competitive appearances during the season, playing a central role as the Italian club secured the Scudetto and Coppa Italia double. At international level, he has recorded three goals and five assists in 35 senior caps for France.
Deschamps will hope Thuram’s absence proves brief as France aim to maintain their momentum against Sweden and advance further in the competition.