Adrien Rabiot’s France place under threat after Belgium

Adrien Rabiot’s position in the France midfield is no longer secure after the team’s impressive performance against Belgium. An established starter under Didier Deschamps, the midfielder now faces serious competition from a more dynamic group of options.

Eduardo Camavinga occupied the role usually associated with Rabiot and brought greater pace, forward movement and intensity to France’s play. He operated in a promising midfield combination with Lucas Da Cunha and Rayan Cherki, a trio praised for combining creativity, versatility and energy. Camavinga’s display was particularly significant because it offered a direct alternative to Rabiot’s profile.

Daniel Riolo argued that France’s midfield functioned better without Rabiot, criticising what he considered a cautious tempo and questioning whether the player fits a system built around pressing and constant movement. Walid Acherchour also backed the new combination, while taking a more measured view of Camavinga’s contribution.

The Belgium match has therefore changed the debate around France’s midfield. Rabiot’s place had appeared settled during the Deschamps era, but Camavinga’s performance has made that status contestable. The next selections will show whether the new balance becomes a serious rival to the former automatic choice.