I know it's not the name on everyone's mouth, but I want to appreciate the fact that Lucu is still there for his spot in the team, as you say as a last-part of match player. He's been through a tough year in terms of performance, getting passed by fire-talented players, yet he's still holding on and giving his best, even when it means solely training with the youngsters and giving his experience. He is typically a player I would see coaching when he stops playing. And from what we see of the locker rooms, he's a real pillar of the team in general!
Gazotti was unreal at the U20 World Cup that France won by crushing every team at every game. If he can display the same level of performance in the France XV ... One to follow.
Melvyn Jaminet was playing in Pro D2 (with Perpignan) when he was brought in the French team in 2021. Galthié likes to bring someone unexpected, the same way as he joined the French squad in the early 90’s!
Way back when, one Mathieu Bastareaud was called on by then coach Bernard Laporte when he was playing in the French 3rd tier. If memory serves me well he ended up not playing due to an injury
Galthié is the best Head Coach France have ever had. They have had a few dodgy ones in recent history. He has been brave enough to bring in young players ( e.g.Jalabert/NTomack) and knows how to deal with the Top14, which has lots of good players but they have to play a lot of games. As an Englishman it hurts me to say this but I think France is way ahead of us at club and international level. France are favourites for the 6N.
I have to point out that there are other teams besides France and England....So, if France is better than England, that means they are favorites to win the 6 Nations? I believe the current champion is Ireland. Some respect to the champion, please.
Je pense que votre analyse est tres correcte, je pense que nous avons prepare une equipe avec un énorme potentiel, mais tout reste a faire, c'est la magie du rugby! Salutations!
For me the single biggest question is whether he starts Ntamack at 10. Still feels like he’s not fully been on form for Toulouse, and Ramos was absolutely great at 10 in the Autumn. Also Ramos at 15 does have a big weakness under high balls - he relies big time on Kinghorn (and Mallia to a lesser degree) to cover that at club, so there is a definite weakness there. Great to see Josh Brennan in there!
@MU-TH-UR Yeah, I do have similar concerns. He’s really not been 100% since last summer (though additional injuries this autumn really didn’t help). Toulouse have given him plenty of game time, so it does feel like potentially a longer term issue at this stage. Will be interesting to see what Galthie does.
Actually, Ramos will be 15 and Galthier will put Ntamack as 10, even if he is far from being at 100%. I think what would better is to put Jalibert as a 10. Remember that now UBB is 1st on top 14 and Jalibert is for sure one the reason why.
as much is talented this team has been last few years , huge presssure on Galthie for the VI nation, only one trophy so far is piss poor return with probably the most talented team we ever have , he has no excuse left
Completely agree with your analysis. France midfield is today the most problematic, but there is so much talent waiting with Deporterre and Gailleton. I hope that they will prove themselves in this six nations. Also, Fickou should be back from injury in the middle of the competition. From your line-up, I would just have put directly Boudehent and Gros as starters given their current form. Cheers
@@azpja6568 Sure but without diving back into what could have been the OP is right, the ceiling is extremely high, pretty young team and I can't see any team in the world except the AB probably, which have such a range of talents at under 23 years of age. Doesn't guarantee anything obviously but french rugby is probably, club and selection, in the best shape it has ever been in my lifetime, and I'm almost 42. Last year WC was a tremendous deception but the sport in France is in good place and we can't ask for more, the rest is the glorious incertitude of sport... and dodgy ref decisions 😉
Hey man, french guy here, love your content ! For Slimani, apart from his good performances these last months, he can also be our spy of the Irish squad, he knows how Leinster works, je knows the guys, I think it could be a good advantage for us
Scary thing is that there’s going to be a lot more cohesion for France with a heavily dominated Toulouse and Bordeaux side. The backline will be all Toulouse Bordeaux unsurprisingly. I still think in the autumn though their set piece looked vulnerable. Certainly one reason Slimani has been brought back in.
I think Galthié put Lucu and Jallibert in the squad to play as "second choice" halves together. So I'd see Lucu/Jallibert as starters for Italy or Wales, and Le Garrec as backup for Dupont in other games. If Buros had been available for 15, he would have started small games and been the clear backup for Ramos, entering at around 60' against England or Scotland. Anyway, as a French, and a rugby lover, I'm so happy to see that France can display such a strong squad, even with some very important players missing. Hoping to see some truly great rugby this Six Nations ! Btw, thank you for your channel, your analysis is always very good (at least I like it and think the same as you do) and I never miss your uploads !
Probably a list which will change over the course of the next weeks. So far quite a competitive team despite the injuries. A few potential weakness: Tighthead: I expect Tatafu and maybe Falatea to come at TH at some point in the competition. 2nd row: I think a 3rd right lock is missing while Taofifenua wasn't at his best lately (and Tuilagi is still injured). Maybe Cazeaux will join at some point. 3rd row: Jegou - polemics aside - is really the profile you are looking for when Ollivon and Roumat are missing. He's also one of the best player currently in LR. That would be a bold move but he could really start the game while Boudehent (also incredible currently) is kept on the bench as impact player. Center: Fickou will miss, but tbh this is a dream opportunity to breed new player, what they should have done late year when Danty/Fickou were clearly out of form. Fullback: I agree Buros is maybe the one who will miss the most to the team. He doesn't have the vision nor the goal kicking ability of Ramos, but I believe he's better regarding the position fundamental skills as well as defense, especially since the rules change. If he was available, I believe the starting team would be 10 Ramos 15 Buros.
Agreed. Especially on Jegou, clearly it's not an ideal situation to put it diplomatically but he is the future in that position. Sh@tstorm incoming for Galthié if he decides to put him on the field but from what I've seen from him so far against top opposition whether Top14, CC vs Leinster or Test Match vs Argentina, he's ready IMHO.
The area of concern is tighthead prop, Atonio is getting old, his heir Tatafu is injured, Bamba is injured, Haouas made himself unpickable, Colombe is alone. That's why Slimani has been called back. I don't think Colombe was bad in the autumn ( keep in mind he played with a stomach bug, i wouldn't want to be lock under those circumstances) but Colombe is not built to play 80 minutes at test level
I think Colombe is good enough to start with Atonio or Aldegheri off the bench. Once Tatafu comes back the situation will look a little better, also I think Joel Merkler will qualify for France soon.
@@henrybullock4514 Merkler will not be able to play for France as he has already made his international debut with Spain. This is the "one-country-for-life rule" (Regulation 8.2) But he could play for England as his father is English
Gros & Baille need to confirm they're back at international level. Colombes must step up his game and be more regular in scrums indeed. Ollivon is a tough loss (tougher for him) but Roumat should get back soon I believe so he'll miss the first game(s). Our line-outs haven't been smooth recently so it will be challenging indeed with neither of them present. Baptiste Serin could be called if one of the scrum-halves is injured and considering his current level you could give him a mask and call him Antoine and you'd fool a lot of people. (But he's not good at being sub / third) Ntamack is still not at his peak but hopefully he'll get there during the tournament. Jalibert, being exclusively a fly-half, will probably stay out of the squad unless Ntamack and/or Ramos get injured, particularly if Fabien uses a 6-2 bench (but even without it, not being polyvalent is really detrimental to him). Danty wasn't very good recently so him being out forces us to experiment a bit sooner than expected. Sadly we've got a lot of talented (though inexperienced) 13, but not many (potential) 12. Big interrogation mark for me at this number. Buros was exceptional for his first international games and it's a big loss for him. Particularly in the air where we're often challenged (I don't understand how, after that many years, we're still so sh*tty in the air). Being realistic: With all that points + the dreadful calendar I think a win is extremely unlikely (maybe that's why F.G. is taking so many youngsters, waiting for next year) and a solid 2nd place would be good.
As an Irish supporter, this team is a winner. Pity Ireland don't meet them at home first. France start poorly and just get better. At the end it will be all about Points. France/Ireland 50/50
Globally agree on your team provided that there are no injuries, which at the moment is nothing but assured specifically with the props. However I think Boudehent will play instead of Jelonch. On the bench, Le Garrec seems to be ahead of Lucu in the scrum half hierarchy.
The French level of talent is frightening. Stick their names in a hat and draw them out. You'll slot them in somewhere. Yes there is the odd question mark here and there but i suspect that's only because we haven't seen that much of the new boys.
Boudehent is the clear 7 but yeah, we may have some trouble in line out. Cros jumps, Flament obviously jumps, alldritt can jump but it's limited options. For 13, it's either depoorterre or Barassi starting cause they're both pure centres. And then Gailleton has a clear spot on the bench because of also being able to play winger.
After seeing this, the game im most interested in is England vs France. England strengths line up with what I view Frances weaknesses to be - aerial and lineout
Lucu is currently having the best season of his career. People like Serin or Couilloud because they score amazing tries each week, but remember : That’s absolutely not what we’re expecting from 9s at the international level.
Good lord - France could almost field two tier-1 teams concurrently 😂. The depth at hooker, second row, half-backs, wingers is insane. Which doesn't guarantee anything, sadly. Centre is a worry, as is the scrum to an extent. Good to have Ntamack back, but I wonder if we wouldn't be better off with Ramos at 10 from the off given the form he's in (but then aerial defence becomes a worry)... Any/all of the games against Ireland, Scotland and even England could still be toss-ups. Should be fun and nerve-wracking in equal measures!
im a bit pissed abt having so much injuries and also idk y paul costes hasnt been selected . hes young rapid he has brilliant offloading and hes a briliant hitter
Fickou and Ollivon leaderships will be missed, but Buros, Wardi and Roumat will be back in few weeks. Great opportunity for Depoortere-Moefana to settle their UBB link in the national team. Big backrow debate, Aldritt & Cros to start, not sure for Jelonch. Boudehent & Jegou are in fire. France, Ireland, England and Scotland with 4 wins each, separated by bonus/points ranking.
I think Buros is out for the whole tournament. As a backup backrow, I'd go with Gazzotti, I thought he was good vs Argentina and he too is on a roll I don't see England getting 4 wins
I think if France didn’t have such a tough away schedule, they would win. Ireland have the easier away games and home advantage for all the tough games. For this reason i believe Ireland should win.
Asa french, i'm not in secure mind for the 6 nations. 😬Because we have a scrum problem. Our second (or first problem) is the psychological health, broken after the world cup ; maybe the good season of frenchs clubs can be good for mental health, I hope. And the X factor surprise can be in the opposites teams the foreigners palyers of french teams ; if Kinghorn will be as good in Scotland teams as he is in Toulouse, ouch ! 🔥And if Capuozzo will be as good in Italy as he is in Toulouse, he can travel all the field alone and mark a try in an individual performance. 🥇
I think that Fickou/Danty being injured is a blessing for France, an opportunity to build on the youngsters for 2027 with Gailleton and Depoortere...with no big risk against Wales
@@mafrjo742 Danty we can agree but Fickou was still the defense captain in november so it suggests that he has still some credit vis à vis the coaching staff.
@@jean-christophefouquet9553 oui je suis d accord, en terme de status il est important, après ça fait un moment qu il a pas lâché un grand match, on a besoin de 15 gars qui font tous la différence sur le terrain
I think you've spotted the right team here. Except for Jelonch who, I think, has not got back up to the level he was pre injury. I think Boudehent starts based on current form.
The tight head prop situation is mainly due to Tatafu who is injured an Falatea. Two prop that are in the plan of Galthie. That why Galthie select Slimani and of course the fact that he good at Leinster
i wont be surprised if Ntamack is at 10 and du pont at 12, du pont said he would love to play centre, then that will be a potent combo, it will be dangerous for the oppisition, so lets see
Very enjoyable video. Keep in mind also that Wardi, Tatafu, Tuilagi, Ollivon, Roumat, Fickou and Buros are injured. I think you really underestimate Moefana that Toulouse tried to steal from Bordeaux and he’s been in the squad for a very long time. Jegou and Abadie are very good in the lineouts and will likely be the alternatives if Jegou can stay away from partying too hard. Boudehent was the best flanker against the Blacks; he will start. We are thinking a lot about the Irish Squad obviously and Alldritt is still too far from Doris which is for me one of the main concerns.
Roumat will be available for the Italy game. Ficou might be available for last part of the tournament. But I would prefer that Galthié give the chance to the younger players to prove themselves
I think Drean has card to play. he has a stunning start of the season, best try scorer. And for the jumper, Abadie is really good at it and already replaces Ollivon in club, definitely an option.
@EggchasersRugby when moving to position by position discussion, could you put up the players’ names as well, please? That would greatly improve the watching and assimilation experience.
Ireland are the favs, France have never managed to win both games against Ireland and England away from Home in the same 6N EVER. Ire, Fra and arguably Scotland depending on the opening game England v Ireland are the teams that would be classed favourites, Ire/Fra for me and it's toss a coin
@ I think Ireland could beat both Fra and Eng yet fail to beat Scotland such is the run of games this 6N! All in all it's like most years toss a coin and hope you get the rub and momentum you may not win the 6N in GW1 but you sure a fk can lose it!
@ yeah - its good that there are 4 teams good enough to win it - it makes it far less predictable and much more enjoyable as a fan Fra Ire with a good chance, Eng Sco with outside chance
Buros is injured, so is roumat. I'd have brought woki back for lineouts, but maybe he's injured? The big question is the returning players, like baille, how fit are they?
From a French point of view, great analysis, I think Boudehent Will start with aldritt and cros. Still big ? About the 10/15, Ntamack/Ramos or Ramos/Barré. Le Garrec for sure on the Bench, Lucu just not cut it in the bleu jersey.
Funnily, although I see a very strong team too - and share your concern for the center part with the absence of Ficou and Rumat, I am more confident for a victory in Dublin, given the past confrontations and the need of revenge than winning again in England. My take (and hope) would be a french victory over the tournament with a defeat against the Rose.
Abadie and Jegou, are amazing for lineouts, and may take Jelonch’s spot in the starting XV. And I believe Colombe will have the spot on the bench. Otherwise amazing video as usual, and very excited to see what this French team will be able to do this year !
Very good analysis. Almost agreed with you for the starting team except for Boudehent, so impressive in 2024, I take him. N'Tamack is back but not with his full potential yet. Galthié does not seam appreciate a pair Dupont/Jalibert. So probably N'Tamack. But Ramos at 10 would be good as well. Slimani back in the squad to back Atonio up. Colombe not good enough for the highest level. I like your comments. Cheers from France
All the teams are good this year, it's going to be an exciting tournament. France has one of the best teams but will it find enough cohesion to win the tournament? Answer in a few weeks.
In the back row, there are 2 main possibilities 1 cros aldritt boudehent and work with cros for the lineout ( cros can do it, he is very versatile) or if you want a real specialist abadie is the best in top14 but you have to take either cros or boudehent out and that's not an easy décision to make. In my opinion, jelonch is not back to his best yet and for now he is just a less powerfull boudehent. There's also an argument for à full LaRochelle back row with jegou for the lineout but I think it would be nut not to have Cros, he's been our most consistent back row player for quite some time. Ollivon has had his ups and down, Aldritt has not been great last year, Jelonch struggles to get back to his best but Cros still hasn't had a bad game.
Romain Tao is 34, so Josh Brennan is in a better place for the 2027 WC, it would be great to see him in the Summer Series, but if Toulouse plays the Top 14 final, he is likely to be on the bench, or even starting if Fament is injured.
Excellent wrap up ! Baille is just coming back, not sure he will begin the match, more likely Gros. Same with Jelonch. Boudehent should begin instead. Galthié usually conservative should pick Moefana pairing with Deporteere but Barassi has made a great start to the season (but he would add one more Toulouse man in the squad and there might be an agreement limiting the number of players from the same club because of Top 14)
Actually makes a lot of sense. Dupont will play 70 minutes or more, Lucu is great at managing the end of a game and Le Garrec is already great and much younger. Serin, as great as he is, can be inconsistent and isn't getting any younger.
Gailleton can play wing so they will put deporteere and moefana 12 and 13 . France have really good players every positions . I think england can be back because everyone expect ireland and France. Ireland is little bit under my think . For example leinster is about 14 players of irish team and was difficult against la rochelle which is not that good this year . Anyway good to see an english interessed about France squad which mean is good mentality and leave rugby with passion. We can see you understand well french rugby.
In the begging of the 6N I wouldnt be surprised to see Priso and Baille at loosehead. Baille came 3 weeks ago, Gros 1 week...Big question mark on the backrow...Boudehant might have won the jersey and Jegou has been impressive. Ntamack hasnt been hos best self since he came back from injury...I wouldnt be surprised if Galthie starts Ramos at 10 and Barre fullback
Thx This is why France will be ready for RWC 2027 and England will be also rans . Borethick and the whole conservative (win today, screw tomorrow) set up in English rugby completely wastes the emerging talent. A perfect example is not picking Pollock for the squad. In France he would definitely be there alongside a raft of other emerging talent. Just take a look at the England U20 squad.
I think they’d go for Moefana and Deportere anyway. Both in red hot form and have a good age profile. Used to playing with each other also which goes a long way at international level.
Line-out could be a big problem for us If we loose Flament during the competition. We would be without our 3 best operators (Roumat, Ollivon, Flament). To me the main Problem lies with the Props. Hence the Slimani comeback. Aldegheri has never been the solution, Atonio should be retired, Colombe has still a lot to learn in the Art of Scrummaging Priso and Gros are allright but not great. Our Props supplying line is Broken. I blame the Top 14 Georgian connection! 😀
As a Frenchman , I always enjoy watching your videos….they are always fair, objective knowledgeable and sensible..keep it up
I agree as a frenchman too !
Saudouaille. (So do I)
rare case of a frenchman speaking english 😂
Outstanding analysis of this French squad, amazing the in-depth knowledge you have
Why is Jacques Ouilisse not selected ? Unbelievable what a shame !
😂😂
We love Jacques Villisse! He is welcome to the French squad anytime!
😂😂😂
@@antoinedescours2459 He needs to discover a French granny quick!
elle m'a fait la journée celle-là...🤣🤣🤣🤣
Boudehent is so impressive since november, a beast
We should start a 7 Nations Tournament with France AA and France A teams.
I know it's not the name on everyone's mouth, but I want to appreciate the fact that Lucu is still there for his spot in the team, as you say as a last-part of match player. He's been through a tough year in terms of performance, getting passed by fire-talented players, yet he's still holding on and giving his best, even when it means solely training with the youngsters and giving his experience. He is typically a player I would see coaching when he stops playing. And from what we see of the locker rooms, he's a real pillar of the team in general!
Gazotti was unreal at the U20 World Cup that France won by crushing every team at every game. If he can display the same level of performance in the France XV ... One to follow.
Joseph did the same and disappeared.
Melvyn Jaminet was playing in Pro D2 (with Perpignan) when he was brought in the French team in 2021. Galthié likes to bring someone unexpected, the same way as he joined the French squad in the early 90’s!
Way back when, one Mathieu Bastareaud was called on by then coach Bernard Laporte when he was playing in the French 3rd tier. If memory serves me well he ended up not playing due to an injury
And wasn't Bouthié a part-time brick-layer at the time (2020/21) ?
Galthié is the best Head Coach France have ever had. They have had a few dodgy ones in recent history.
He has been brave enough to bring in young players ( e.g.Jalabert/NTomack) and knows how to deal with the Top14, which has lots of good players but they have to play a lot of games.
As an Englishman it hurts me to say this but I think France is way ahead of us at club and international level. France are favourites for the 6N.
I have to point out that there are other teams besides France and England....So, if France is better than England, that means they are favorites to win the 6 Nations? I believe the current champion is Ireland. Some respect to the champion, please.
Galthié is probably the worst coach France ever had, he’s just playing with the best generation France ever had
Jalibert mdr Jalabert c'est un cycliste
Great team, great depth, great talent, the French do not afraid to stick their youngsters in unlike other nations, really set them apart.
Borthwick is far too conservative, England won’t get higher than 3rd at best
Je pense que votre analyse est tres correcte, je pense que nous avons prepare une equipe avec un énorme potentiel, mais tout reste a faire, c'est la magie du rugby! Salutations!
For me the single biggest question is whether he starts Ntamack at 10.
Still feels like he’s not fully been on form for Toulouse, and Ramos was absolutely great at 10 in the Autumn.
Also Ramos at 15 does have a big weakness under high balls - he relies big time on Kinghorn (and Mallia to a lesser degree) to cover that at club, so there is a definite weakness there.
Great to see Josh Brennan in there!
I fear that he will not recover his pre injury form. His lack of pace vs The Sharks was concerning. Hopefully i'm wrong.
@MU-TH-UR Yeah, I do have similar concerns. He’s really not been 100% since last summer (though additional injuries this autumn really didn’t help). Toulouse have given him plenty of game time, so it does feel like potentially a longer term issue at this stage.
Will be interesting to see what Galthie does.
Injuries do that to a player
Actually, Ramos will be 15 and Galthier will put Ntamack as 10, even if he is far from being at 100%. I think what would better is to put Jalibert as a 10. Remember that now UBB is 1st on top 14 and Jalibert is for sure one the reason why.
He will put Ntamack at 10, Galthié kept his place for the summer series…
so happy to see Ntamack back again :)
Gaël Dréan is a blend of Penaud and LBB. A joy to see him playing in the 14 jersey. He is the future!
I don't know about the future, he's turning 25 this year, he's 3 years older than LBB
He is a 14 as Penaud. He is 4 years younger.
@@nicolasmaligner8753Clearly not a blend, he’s clearly a class or two under those two players.
as much is talented this team has been last few years , huge presssure on Galthie for the VI nation, only one trophy so far is piss poor return with probably the most talented team we ever have , he has no excuse left
Completely agree with your analysis.
France midfield is today the most problematic, but there is so much talent waiting with Deporterre and Gailleton. I hope that they will prove themselves in this six nations. Also, Fickou should be back from injury in the middle of the competition.
From your line-up, I would just have put directly Boudehent and Gros as starters given their current form.
Cheers
Honestly, I think the French have the highest ceiling of any nation at the moment.
And yet we couldn’t win a World Cup at home 😅
@@azpja6568 Sure but without diving back into what could have been the OP is right, the ceiling is extremely high, pretty young team and I can't see any team in the world except the AB probably, which have such a range of talents at under 23 years of age. Doesn't guarantee anything obviously but french rugby is probably, club and selection, in the best shape it has ever been in my lifetime, and I'm almost 42. Last year WC was a tremendous deception but the sport in France is in good place and we can't ask for more, the rest is the glorious incertitude of sport... and dodgy ref decisions 😉
@ Don’t worry about it. It’s 2025.
What a squad!
Hey man, french guy here, love your content ! For Slimani, apart from his good performances these last months, he can also be our spy of the Irish squad, he knows how Leinster works, je knows the guys, I think it could be a good advantage for us
No need to spy. Just better them
Slimani already back home
Scary thing is that there’s going to be a lot more cohesion for France with a heavily dominated Toulouse and Bordeaux side. The backline will be all Toulouse Bordeaux unsurprisingly. I still think in the autumn though their set piece looked vulnerable. Certainly one reason Slimani has been brought back in.
I think Galthié put Lucu and Jallibert in the squad to play as "second choice" halves together. So I'd see Lucu/Jallibert as starters for Italy or Wales, and Le Garrec as backup for Dupont in other games. If Buros had been available for 15, he would have started small games and been the clear backup for Ramos, entering at around 60' against England or Scotland.
Anyway, as a French, and a rugby lover, I'm so happy to see that France can display such a strong squad, even with some very important players missing. Hoping to see some truly great rugby this Six Nations !
Btw, thank you for your channel, your analysis is always very good (at least I like it and think the same as you do) and I never miss your uploads !
We really only had Dupont Jalibert once and France crushed New Zealand this way… They should try this more
A brilliant team
Probably a list which will change over the course of the next weeks. So far quite a competitive team despite the injuries. A few potential weakness:
Tighthead: I expect Tatafu and maybe Falatea to come at TH at some point in the competition.
2nd row: I think a 3rd right lock is missing while Taofifenua wasn't at his best lately (and Tuilagi is still injured). Maybe Cazeaux will join at some point.
3rd row: Jegou - polemics aside - is really the profile you are looking for when Ollivon and Roumat are missing. He's also one of the best player currently in LR. That would be a bold move but he could really start the game while Boudehent (also incredible currently) is kept on the bench as impact player.
Center: Fickou will miss, but tbh this is a dream opportunity to breed new player, what they should have done late year when Danty/Fickou were clearly out of form.
Fullback: I agree Buros is maybe the one who will miss the most to the team. He doesn't have the vision nor the goal kicking ability of Ramos, but I believe he's better regarding the position fundamental skills as well as defense, especially since the rules change. If he was available, I believe the starting team would be 10 Ramos 15 Buros.
Agreed. Especially on Jegou, clearly it's not an ideal situation to put it diplomatically but he is the future in that position. Sh@tstorm incoming for Galthié if he decides to put him on the field but from what I've seen from him so far against top opposition whether Top14, CC vs Leinster or Test Match vs Argentina, he's ready IMHO.
Tres bonne vidéo et tres bonne analyse. Je trouve ta feuille de match (23 joueurs) tres pertinente : je pense que j'aurais mis la même !
The area of concern is tighthead prop, Atonio is getting old, his heir Tatafu is injured, Bamba is injured, Haouas made himself unpickable, Colombe is alone. That's why Slimani has been called back. I don't think Colombe was bad in the autumn ( keep in mind he played with a stomach bug, i wouldn't want to be lock under those circumstances) but Colombe is not built to play 80 minutes at test level
I think Colombe is good enough to start with Atonio or Aldegheri off the bench. Once Tatafu comes back the situation will look a little better, also I think Joel Merkler will qualify for France soon.
Colombe, colombin . Dur métier que 5 ou surtout 7 et 8 dans des conditions aussi déploraaaaables !
@@henrybullock4514 merkler can't play for France under current laws, he played for Spain and has no french ancestors. So he can't swap
@@henrybullock4514 i forgot Aldegheri, my bad. He can be a very good scrummager
@@henrybullock4514 Merkler will not be able to play for France as he has already made his international debut with Spain. This is the "one-country-for-life rule" (Regulation 8.2)
But he could play for England as his father is English
really impressive knowledge, I am french and passionate about rugby and ur accuracy on this squad is pinpoint
Scary how much talent is in this squad. They’re missing some big names and the 42 still looks far stronger than, say, England’s…
Gros & Baille need to confirm they're back at international level.
Colombes must step up his game and be more regular in scrums indeed.
Ollivon is a tough loss (tougher for him) but Roumat should get back soon I believe so he'll miss the first game(s). Our line-outs haven't been smooth recently so it will be challenging indeed with neither of them present.
Baptiste Serin could be called if one of the scrum-halves is injured and considering his current level you could give him a mask and call him Antoine and you'd fool a lot of people. (But he's not good at being sub / third)
Ntamack is still not at his peak but hopefully he'll get there during the tournament. Jalibert, being exclusively a fly-half, will probably stay out of the squad unless Ntamack and/or Ramos get injured, particularly if Fabien uses a 6-2 bench (but even without it, not being polyvalent is really detrimental to him).
Danty wasn't very good recently so him being out forces us to experiment a bit sooner than expected. Sadly we've got a lot of talented (though inexperienced) 13, but not many (potential) 12. Big interrogation mark for me at this number.
Buros was exceptional for his first international games and it's a big loss for him. Particularly in the air where we're often challenged (I don't understand how, after that many years, we're still so sh*tty in the air).
Being realistic: With all that points + the dreadful calendar I think a win is extremely unlikely (maybe that's why F.G. is taking so many youngsters, waiting for next year) and a solid 2nd place would be good.
As an Irish supporter, this team is a winner. Pity Ireland don't meet them at home first. France start poorly and just get better. At the end it will be all about Points. France/Ireland 50/50
True comment about France starting poorly. This is a concern for us playing in England of the 2nd game.
Globally agree on your team provided that there are no injuries, which at the moment is nothing but assured specifically with the props. However I think Boudehent will play instead of Jelonch. On the bench, Le Garrec seems to be ahead of Lucu in the scrum half hierarchy.
That's a lot of fire power. If this clicks well together, and players are in shape, who can stop them?
The French level of talent is frightening. Stick their names in a hat and draw them out. You'll slot them in somewhere. Yes there is the odd question mark here and there but i suspect that's only because we haven't seen that much of the new boys.
Boudehent is the clear 7 but yeah, we may have some trouble in line out. Cros jumps, Flament obviously jumps, alldritt can jump but it's limited options.
For 13, it's either depoorterre or Barassi starting cause they're both pure centres. And then Gailleton has a clear spot on the bench because of also being able to play winger.
The right choice would probably be to start with the 11 to 14 from Bordeaux right now
As french, you are so accurate !!
After seeing this, the game im most interested in is England vs France. England strengths line up with what I view Frances weaknesses to be - aerial and lineout
What does Baptiste-Serin have to do to get in ahead of le garrec or lucu?
Agreed. His form has been outstanding this season!
Was about to type the same thing. Guy will get into any other international team
Galthié is preparing the next World Cup and Serin is getting old
@@dam2855yes. That’s the only reason I think. Serin is not the future. WC is in two years, Galthie already working on
Lucu is currently having the best season of his career. People like Serin or Couilloud because they score amazing tries each week, but remember : That’s absolutely not what we’re expecting from 9s at the international level.
Good lord - France could almost field two tier-1 teams concurrently 😂. The depth at hooker, second row, half-backs, wingers is insane. Which doesn't guarantee anything, sadly. Centre is a worry, as is the scrum to an extent. Good to have Ntamack back, but I wonder if we wouldn't be better off with Ramos at 10 from the off given the form he's in (but then aerial defence becomes a worry)... Any/all of the games against Ireland, Scotland and even England could still be toss-ups. Should be fun and nerve-wracking in equal measures!
im a bit pissed abt having so much injuries
and also idk y paul costes hasnt been selected . hes young rapid he has brilliant offloading and hes a briliant hitter
I look forward to your first review of these GODS!
Fickou and Ollivon leaderships will be missed, but Buros, Wardi and Roumat will be back in few weeks.
Great opportunity for Depoortere-Moefana to settle their UBB link in the national team.
Big backrow debate, Aldritt & Cros to start, not sure for Jelonch. Boudehent & Jegou are in fire.
France, Ireland, England and Scotland with 4 wins each, separated by bonus/points ranking.
I think Buros is out for the whole tournament. As a backup backrow, I'd go with Gazzotti, I thought he was good vs Argentina and he too is on a roll
I don't see England getting 4 wins
@@patanouketgersiflet9486i would love Gazzotti as a supersub but he would have more chance in a 6-2 bench split
I think if France didn’t have such a tough away schedule, they would win. Ireland have the easier away games and home advantage for all the tough games. For this reason i believe Ireland should win.
Shame for Baptise Serin, but they are really stacked at 9 aren’t they eh?
Asa french, i'm not in secure mind for the 6 nations. 😬Because we have a scrum problem. Our second (or first problem) is the psychological health, broken after the world cup ; maybe the good season of frenchs clubs can be good for mental health, I hope.
And the X factor surprise can be in the opposites teams the foreigners palyers of french teams ; if Kinghorn will be as good in Scotland teams as he is in Toulouse, ouch ! 🔥And if Capuozzo will be as good in Italy as he is in Toulouse, he can travel all the field alone and mark a try in an individual performance. 🥇
France are missing some big names : Ollivon, Danty, Fickou, Wardi, Tatafu (for now), Roumat, ... time to see if the depth is real
I think that Fickou/Danty being injured is a blessing for France, an opportunity to build on the youngsters for 2027 with Gailleton and Depoortere...with no big risk against Wales
Danty and Fickou used to be Big names, they don t show the same talent anymore
@@mafrjo742 Danty we can agree but Fickou was still the defense captain in november so it suggests that he has still some credit vis à vis the coaching staff.
@@jean-christophefouquet9553 oui je suis d accord, en terme de status il est important, après ça fait un moment qu il a pas lâché un grand match, on a besoin de 15 gars qui font tous la différence sur le terrain
Boudehent will be in. This guys is a war machine.
I think you've spotted the right team here. Except for Jelonch who, I think, has not got back up to the level he was pre injury. I think Boudehent starts based on current form.
I agree. He is a monster.
Boudehent is 100% starting
The tight head prop situation is mainly due to Tatafu who is injured an Falatea. Two prop that are in the plan of Galthie. That why Galthie select Slimani and of course the fact that he good at Leinster
i wont be surprised if Ntamack is at 10 and du pont at 12, du pont said he would love to play centre, then that will be a potent combo, it will be dangerous for the oppisition, so lets see
Very enjoyable video. Keep in mind also that Wardi, Tatafu, Tuilagi, Ollivon, Roumat, Fickou and Buros are injured. I think you really underestimate Moefana that Toulouse tried to steal from Bordeaux and he’s been in the squad for a very long time. Jegou and Abadie are very good in the lineouts and will likely be the alternatives if Jegou can stay away from partying too hard. Boudehent was the best flanker against the Blacks; he will start. We are thinking a lot about the Irish Squad obviously and Alldritt is still too far from Doris which is for me one of the main concerns.
Roumat will be available for the Italy game. Ficou might be available for last part of the tournament. But I would prefer that Galthié give the chance to the younger players to prove themselves
never clicked faster on one of your videos ^^
I think Drean has card to play. he has a stunning start of the season, best try scorer.
And for the jumper, Abadie is really good at it and already replaces Ollivon in club, definitely an option.
Hello Tim,
When it comes to lineouts, I think François Cros is the one from the backrow available as we speak.
Jegou is really good at the line out too
@EggchasersRugby when moving to position by position discussion, could you put up the players’ names as well, please?
That would greatly improve the watching and assimilation experience.
I’m scared for Wales in that first 6 nations game
I think if ntamack was fit last world cup they would have won
Favourites
Ireland are the favs, France have never managed to win both games against Ireland and England away from Home in the same 6N EVER. Ire, Fra and arguably Scotland depending on the opening game England v Ireland are the teams that would be classed favourites, Ire/Fra for me and it's toss a coin
@@joelyons886 "Ire/Fra for me and it's toss a coin"
Me too, I tossed the coin and France won.
France could lose to Ireland and still win 6N
@ I think Ireland could beat both Fra and Eng yet fail to beat Scotland such is the run of games this 6N! All in all it's like most years toss a coin and hope you get the rub and momentum you may not win the 6N in GW1 but you sure a fk can lose it!
@ yeah - its good that there are 4 teams good enough to win it - it makes it far less predictable and much more enjoyable as a fan
Fra Ire with a good chance, Eng Sco with outside chance
Not strong enough in the front for Aviva Stadium and possibly not for London (can't remember the name of the stadium).
boudehent was the best french player in november with lbb by far theres no way he doesnt start
Buros is injured, so is roumat. I'd have brought woki back for lineouts, but maybe he's injured? The big question is the returning players, like baille, how fit are they?
Isn't Joshua Brennan the young (previously) U20s captain for France that said he was "absolutely bloody delighted" in his very deep, French accent? 😆
It was Daniel his older brother haha (now playing in Toulon)
From a French point of view, great analysis, I think Boudehent Will start with aldritt and cros. Still big ? About the 10/15, Ntamack/Ramos or Ramos/Barré.
Le Garrec for sure on the Bench, Lucu just not cut it in the bleu jersey.
Slimini spillng all the Leinster secrets?
Funnily, although I see a very strong team too - and share your concern for the center part with the absence of Ficou and Rumat, I am more confident for a victory in Dublin, given the past confrontations and the need of revenge than winning again in England. My take (and hope) would be a french victory over the tournament with a defeat against the Rose.
Abadie and Jegou, are amazing for lineouts, and may take Jelonch’s spot in the starting XV. And I believe Colombe will have the spot on the bench.
Otherwise amazing video as usual, and very excited to see what this French team will be able to do this year !
Le Garrec Will be the one on the bench not Lucu
Jelonch won’t be in the 23 boudehent will start at 7
Colombe probably at 18
Very good analysis. Almost agreed with you for the starting team except for Boudehent, so impressive in 2024, I take him. N'Tamack is back but not with his full potential yet. Galthié does not seam appreciate a pair Dupont/Jalibert. So probably N'Tamack. But Ramos at 10 would be good as well. Slimani back in the squad to back Atonio up. Colombe not good enough for the highest level. I like your comments. Cheers from France
Great to see Irish lads getting a game for France, Ireland just the gift that keeps giving 😉
The other 2 Brennan bros play as well. One of them is a tank, I think he's a prop for Toulon. Legs the size of tree trunks.
Pardon?
@
You're Welcome😏
@@lizzyhanahoe4197it’s a joke
@ just learned that it’s referring to the Brennan brothers, now it makes sense.
I remember the first ever video i ever watched from EC. Had a similar title, some things take a while to change💯❤️
All the teams are good this year, it's going to be an exciting tournament. France has one of the best teams but will it find enough cohesion to win the tournament? Answer in a few weeks.
He might take Jegou instead of Jelonch, he has been great at line-outs with La Rochelle last weekend despite the loss.
In the back row, there are 2 main possibilities
1 cros aldritt boudehent and work with cros for the lineout ( cros can do it, he is very versatile) or if you want a real specialist abadie is the best in top14 but you have to take either cros or boudehent out and that's not an easy décision to make. In my opinion, jelonch is not back to his best yet and for now he is just a less powerfull boudehent. There's also an argument for à full LaRochelle back row with jegou for the lineout but I think it would be nut not to have Cros, he's been our most consistent back row player for quite some time. Ollivon has had his ups and down, Aldritt has not been great last year, Jelonch struggles to get back to his best but Cros still hasn't had a bad game.
I reckon the back row will be Cros, Boudehent, Alldritt. Then possibly Jelonch and Gazzotti off the bench if they go with a 6/2 split.
I'll take Jegou over Gazotti
Whats the chances they try penaud in the centres? Certainly has the size and has played there before. Reminds me of rougerie.
T’was his formation position !
No chance
Where is the Scotland love Egg chasers? It has been 2 days since the team was announced...
He’s doing one a day - patience!
It will be the last but not the least ;)
Romain Tao is 34, so Josh Brennan is in a better place for the 2027 WC, it would be great to see him in the Summer Series, but if Toulouse plays the Top 14 final, he is likely to be on the bench, or even starting if Fament is injured.
boudehent is a monster, i don't see him outside the 15
What happened to posolo?
Excellent wrap up !
Baille is just coming back, not sure he will begin the match, more likely Gros.
Same with Jelonch. Boudehent should begin instead. Galthié usually conservative should pick Moefana pairing with Deporteere but Barassi has made a great start to the season (but he would add one more Toulouse man in the squad and there might be an agreement limiting the number of players from the same club because of Top 14)
And colombe at replacement prop
We must not forget that Talonneur Pierre BOURGARIT is also missing due to injury.
Being able to not pick Serin is a joke. Just rude, really.
Actually makes a lot of sense. Dupont will play 70 minutes or more, Lucu is great at managing the end of a game and Le Garrec is already great and much younger. Serin, as great as he is, can be inconsistent and isn't getting any younger.
@thomaslequesne5475 I was not saying it's a mistake, just imagine having that much depth
@@JohnRidley12 Exactly. Any other side in the world, he’d walk right in. The French squad at nine is just embarrassingly stacked.
Do you think Posolo Tuilagi would be in the roster hadn't it been for his injury?
certainly, yes
Thibault Flament at 7 Tim, with Aldritt and Cros?
Gailleton can play wing so they will put deporteere and moefana 12 and 13 . France have really good players every positions . I think england can be back because everyone expect ireland and France. Ireland is little bit under my think . For example leinster is about 14 players of irish team and was difficult against la rochelle which is not that good this year . Anyway good to see an english interessed about France squad which mean is good mentality and leave rugby with passion. We can see you understand well french rugby.
In the begging of the 6N I wouldnt be surprised to see Priso and Baille at loosehead. Baille came 3 weeks ago, Gros 1 week...Big question mark on the backrow...Boudehant might have won the jersey and Jegou has been impressive. Ntamack hasnt been hos best self since he came back from injury...I wouldnt be surprised if Galthie starts Ramos at 10 and Barre fullback
Thx
This is why France will be ready for RWC 2027 and England will be also rans . Borethick and the whole conservative (win today, screw tomorrow) set up in English rugby completely wastes the emerging talent. A perfect example is not picking Pollock for the squad. In France he would definitely be there alongside a raft of other emerging talent. Just take a look at the England U20 squad.
FRA has an embarrassment of riches, still think even w/o Danty & Fickou there's still so many quality Centres!
They have the player base other nations pretend England has
I think they’d go for Moefana and Deportere anyway. Both in red hot form and have a good age profile. Used to playing with each other also which goes a long way at international level.
@ Yeah that makes the most sense to me!
Danty and Fickou always seem to play really well against Ireland. Those two will be missed.
A lot more for the 13 shirt than for the 12 though, which I think is one of our only two weak spots along with number 3 at the moment.
Your forgetting one of the best teams in this year’s 6 nations Scotland as an Ireland supporter they are going to be the team to beat for Ireland
Injury for Jelonch so Boudehent gonna play but for the others i thk u r right
Equipe idéale malgrè l'absence de deux de mes chouchous, Ollivon et Danty!!!
Gael Drean !
TOULON est 3rd en France pour un raison, voir le match contre QUINS
Gaël Dréan is pronounced « drey-an » with the « an » pronounced like the end of Thibault Flamant
Line-out could be a big problem for us If we loose Flament during the competition. We would be without our 3 best operators (Roumat, Ollivon, Flament). To me the main Problem lies with the Props. Hence the Slimani comeback. Aldegheri has never been the solution, Atonio should be retired, Colombe has still a lot to learn in the Art of Scrummaging Priso and Gros are allright but not great.
Our Props supplying line is Broken. I blame the Top 14 Georgian connection! 😀
Boudehent will be starting mate
Noah Nene is on loan from Stade Français to Dax this year, he will be back at Stade Français next season.
Your back misses a touch player ! I'll go for barassi at 13 !
Gros returns from injury this week
I shall miss watching OLLIVON in Paris against the Scots
where is the scotland vid?
No Jacques Wilisse?