Tchouaméni Takes the Captain's Armband

Aurélien Tchouaméni will lead France in the Nations League match against Israel, stepping in for Kylian Mbappé who is out due to thigh injury. With vice-captain Antoine Griezmann retired, France relies on Tchouaméni's experience. Italy currently leads the group with a three-point advantage.

Aurélien Tchouaméni will assume the captain's role for France in their upcoming Nations League encounter against Israel, as confirmed by the French soccer federation on Wednesday. This leadership shift comes in the absence of regular captain Kylian Mbappé, who is recuperating from a minor thigh injury in Madrid.

With Tchouaméni set to bring his experience from 36 appearances for the national team, France faces a challenging landscape. The squad will be without usual stars, including Antoine Griezmann, who recently retired from international play, drawing an end to a partnership that led to France's 2018 World Cup triumph.

The tactical dynamics outline a compelling contest, as Italy leads the Nations League group, holding a three-point edge over France and Belgium after two rounds. France is slated to tackle Israel this Thursday, followed by a critical matchup in Belgium.

(With inputs from agencies.)