Youth Movement in French Women’s National Football Team as Euro 2025 Approaches
Laurent Bonadei announces a youth-driven squad for Euro 2025, excluding veteran players.
Key Points
- • Laurent Bonadei announces a youth-focused squad for Euro 2025.
- • Griedge Mbock appointed as captain, veteran players excluded.
- • France won all six matches in the Nations League prior to Euro.
- • Upcoming friendly matches against Belgium and Brazil to finalize preparations.
In a bold strategic shift, Laurent Bonadei, head coach of the French women’s national football team, has announced a significant youth movement for the Euro 2025 tournament. Notably, Bonadei has opted to exclude longstanding stars such as Wendie Renard, Eugénie Le Sommer, and Kenza Dali, collectively possessing over 400 international caps. Instead, Griedge Mbock has been named as the new team captain, reflecting Bonadei's focus on rejuvenating the squad ahead of the tournament set to kick off on July 2, 2025, in Switzerland.
This decision is viewed as a necessary step following a series of disappointing performances in recent major tournaments, including the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Olympics. The team has recently showcased strong form, winning all six matches in the Nations League, with impressive victories such as 2-0 against Iceland and 4-0 against Switzerland. As part of their preparations, the squad will engage in friendly matches against Belgium on June 20 and Brazil on June 27, leading into their Euro opener against England on July 5 in Zurich.
Bonadei’s strategy reflects a generational shift aimed at fostering a new era for the French team. With promising players like Delphine Cascarino and Kadidiatou Diani expected to feature alongside expected starter Marie-Antoinette Katoto, who has recently joined Olympique Lyonnais, the squad is poised for a blend of talent and youthful energy as they aim for success at the upcoming tournament.