France’s hopes for Euro 2024 have been dealt a significant blow as defender Lucas Hernandez is set to miss the tournament due to a knee injury sustained during Paris St-Germain’s Champions League semi-final clash against Borussia Dortmund. The 28-year-old was forced off the pitch in the 42nd minute of PSG’s 1-0 defeat, and subsequent medical examinations revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
Hernandez, a key figure in France’s defensive lineup, faces another lengthy spell on the sidelines, with PSG confirming that he will undergo surgery in the coming days. While the club refrained from specifying a timeline for his recovery, ACL injuries typically sideline players for six to eight months, with potential variations depending on the rehabilitation process.
This isn’t the first time Hernandez has faced the agony of an ACL injury. The defender experienced a similar setback during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he ruptured his ACL in France’s opening group match against Australia. Consequently, he was unable to participate further in the tournament, leaving a void in the French squad’s defensive setup.
Hernandez’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by Les Bleus, given his contributions to the team’s success in recent years. Having been capped 37 times by France and playing a pivotal role in their 2018 World Cup triumph, his experience and defensive prowess will be sorely missed as they aim to make an impact in the upcoming European Championship.
With Euro 2024 set to kick off in Germany on June 14th, France’s coaching staff faces the daunting task of reshuffling their defensive strategies in the absence of Hernandez. His injury adds to the complexities of their preparation process, as they seek to navigate through a highly competitive tournament without one of their key defensive stalwarts.
As the countdown to Euro 2024 begins, France will be forced to adapt and regroup in the wake of Hernandez’s unfortunate injury setback. The defensive reshuffle will undoubtedly test the depth of their squad and the tactical acumen of their coaching staff as they strive to maintain their status as one of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.
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