After Hugo Lloris, the French team will lose its other historic goalkeeper. Indeed, Steve Mandanda has decided to retire from international duty after the World Cup in Qatar.
Mandanda will no longer play for the Blues.
The World Cup in Qatar will mark a major break in the recent history of the French team. While Didier Deschamps has seriously rejuvenated his squad, many older executives will no longer wear the Blues jersey.
Mandanda will say stop
Karim Benzema waited until the day after the final lost against Argentina (3-3, 2-4 pens) to formalize his decision. Hugo Lloris chose to make his choice public on Monday, after beating Lilian Thuram’s selection record (145 caps). The oldest player in the squad, namely Steve Mandanda, will follow in the footsteps of the two former Lyonnais.
Indeed, L’Equipe tells us that the Rennes goalkeeper has decided to retire from international football at the age of 37. Like the Tottenham goalkeeper, the last Breton bulwark began his career with the Blues in 2008, taking part in all selection competitions apart from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil due to a neck injury.
More space for the youngest
Until the end, the most successful player in the history of Olympique de Marseille was a privileged relay between his partners and Deschamps even if he never had the chance to be number one under the orders of his three coaches (Domenech, Blanc, Deschamps). His counter will remain blocked for 35 capes, including the last against Tunisia (0-1), on November 30.
Even if this announced retirement should not change much for Mike Maignan, the favorite to recover the position of number one, it will free up an additional place in the next lists of the Blues. Alphonse Areola, Alban Lafont, Brice Samba, Illan Meslier or even Lucas Chevalier could compete for the two remaining tickets behind the solid rock of AC Milan.
What will you remember of Steve Mandanda in the France team? Would he have deserved a better career with the Blues? Do not hesitate to react and discuss in the area add a comment …
