FIFA World Cup 2022 commenced from November 20 in Qatar and is now on the verge of finishing. Every footballer dreams of representing his country at the World Cup. Unfortunately, in this edition, some famous players missed the tournament. Some of them were not selected in the squad of their respective countries, some players were unable to go to Qatar because their nation was not qualified while some other missed the current edition due to injuries. Anthony Martial is one of those popular names who is not playing at FIFA World Cup 2022. Despite being a forward player at Manchester United, Martial missed the biggest football tournament. The fans are confused and want to know as to why is Anthony Martial not playing for France at Qatar World Cup?
France World Cup 2022 Squad
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Hugo Lloris, Steve Mandanda
Defenders: Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, Benjamin Pavard, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Raphael Varane
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, Matteo Guendouzi, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jordan Veretout
Forwards: Karim Benzema, Kingsley Coman, Ousmane Dembele, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe, Christopher Nkunku
Why is Anthony Martial not playing for France at Qatar World Cup?
Manchester United forward Anthony Martial is not playing for France at Qatar World Cup because he has not been selected in the 26-men squad. France coach Deschamps preferred to not choose Martial in his squad for World Cup. Martial has not played for the France international side since September 2021.
Martial was not picked in the original squad of France for World Cup. However, after Benzema’s injury, it was predicted that Martial will be called up to replace him but it didn’t happen. Deschamps overlooked Martial and did not call any replacement for Benzema.
Martial’s career has been severely hit by injuries. In this season also, he is still recovering to gain full fitness. His form under Erik Ten Hag has definitely improved. He became the first choice striker under the new manager. But due to his frequent injuries, he did not start in enough matches.
However, Martial’s absence has not affected France at all. Les Blues have a great squad depth. The squad is filled with a number of forward players.
France forward options at the World Cup 2022
Player | Club |
Kylian Mbappe | PSG |
Antonie Griezmann | Atletico Madrid |
Ousmane Dembele | FC Barcelona |
Olivier Giroud | AC Milan |
Kingsley Coman | Bayern Munich |
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