Losing Clément Lenglet disrupts the core balance that has underpinned France’s defense throughout this tournament. To compensate for his unavailability, Deschamps might shift towards a more flexible formation—potentially deploying three center-backs by incorporating Lucas Hernandez or Jules Koundé into central roles. This adjustment not only affects defensive solidity but also influences how quickly France can transition from defense into attack since Lenglet was instrumental in cleanly distributing possession from deep areas.

The ripple effects extend beyond just positioning defenders—the wingers and midfielders must adapt their pressing intensity and spatial coverage accordingly. Key tactical shifts include:

  • Diminished speed during transitions: With less fluid ball progression out of defense;
  • A greater defensive workload on central midfielders: To shield gaps left by altered backline dynamics;
  • A hybrid backline approach: Switching between four-man and three-man defenses depending on game phases;