French striker Hugo Ekitike has been left stunned after national team manager Didier Deschamps made a controversial call during World Cup qualifying at the Stade de France. The young forward, who has been in fine form at club level, was expected to play a significant role, but instead found himself sidelined in a move that has sparked heated debate across French football.
For Ekitike, the decision was both humbling and frustrating. Touted as one of France’s brightest attacking prospects, he had hoped to use the qualifiers as a platform to cement his place in the squad.
Instead, Deschamps opted for more experienced options, leaving many questioning whether the coach is overlooking the importance of nurturing the next generation.
Fans and pundits alike have voiced mixed reactions. Some argue that the exclusion is a harsh blow to a striker who has shown he can deliver at the highest level, while others believe Deschamps is sticking to a tried-and-tested formula in pursuit of qualification.
The incident has not only placed the spotlight on Ekitike’s international future but also reignited the debate about France’s balance between youth and experience as they prepare for the next World Cup.
For Ekitike, the challenge now will be to respond with performances that make his selection impossible to ignore.