France have been handed a major injury concern ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against Morocco, with midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni facing a race against time to recover.

The Real Madrid star missed France’s 1-0 Round of 16 victory over Paraguay after picking up an injury before the knockout fixture. While Les Bleus secured their place in the last eight through Kylian Mbappé’s second-half penalty, Tchouaméni’s absence was keenly felt in midfield.

Head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that the 25-year-old remains under medical assessment, with a final decision on his availability expected closer to the quarterfinal.

Aurélien Tchouaméni’s absence could hurt France

Tchouaméni has been one of France’s most reliable performers at the tournament, providing balance in midfield with his defensive work, passing and ball recovery.

If he fails to recover in time, Deschamps will have to reshuffle his midfield against a Morocco side that has impressed throughout the World Cup with its disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks.

France have looked strong so far, progressing comfortably through the group stage before edging past Paraguay in the Round of 16. However, Morocco are expected to pose their toughest challenge of the tournament.

France eye semifinal spot

France will once again rely on captain Kylian Mbappé, who has been in sensational form and leads the tournament’s scoring charts. The attack also features Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola, giving Les Bleus plenty of firepower.

There is another concern for France as Olise remains one yellow card away from suspension after FIFA declined an appeal to overturn his booking.

Meanwhile, Morocco head into the quarterfinal full of confidence after defeating Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. The African side has emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise packages and will look to continue its dream run.

With Tchouaméni’s fitness still uncertain, France face an anxious wait before one of the biggest matches of their World Cup campaign. A place in the semifinals is at stake, and Deschamps will hope to have his first-choice midfield available against an in-form Moroccan side.