France Announces Key Lineup Changes Returning Star Centers for Six Nations Match Against Scotland

As the French rugby team prepares to confront Scotland at Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday, March 7, in the 2026 Six Nations tournament, coach Fabien Galthié has revealed a lineup featuring five significant changes from their recent victory over Italy. The team aims to clinch their 28th Six Nations title with a win, which would secure not only the championship but also mark a potential double victory for France, a feat last achieved in 2006-2007.

The notable alterations include the return of the center pairing Yoram Moefana and Nicolas Depoortere, reinstated in place of the injured Fabien Brau-Boirie and Emilien Gailleton. This duo is expected to reinforce the midfield significantly, as Galthié emphasized their strong performance in the tournament opener against Ireland. Additionally, fly-half Matthieu Jalibert, who missed the previous match due to a calf injury, returns to partner with captain Antoine Dupont at the pivotal 10 and 9 positions.

In the second row, the experienced Charles Ollivon and Mickaël Guillard make a comeback after being sidelined in the last game, bolstering the team's lineout and forward power. The back row sees Anthony Jelonch rejoining the starting fifteen, overcoming previous injury doubts to line up alongside François Cros and Oscar Jegou.

The starting XV includes Ramos at fullback, Attissogbe and Bielle-Biarrey on the wings, and a forward pack composed of Aldegheri, Marchand, Gros among others, with seasoned players Mauvaka, Neti, and Bamba among the reserves. This selection strategy leans toward a traditional, balanced squad, aiming to leverage both experience and recent form.

Galthié's choices reflect careful consideration of fitness and form, intending to present a cohesive and dynamic team capable of overcoming the challenge posed by Scotland in their home stadium. With a bonus-point victory on the line, all eyes will be on Les Bleus as they strive to secure the Six Nations title and further cement their standing in European rugby.