Two bizarre theories have emerged as to why French duo Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano caught a cold ahead of the semi-final against Morocco, with the English team and air conditioning being blamed.
Rabiot could not recover in time for the match against the Atlas Lions while Upamecano was well enough to grab a spot on the bench after both started the quarter final against England.
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Youssouf Fofana replaced Rabiot and Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate came in for Upamecano as Deschamps’ hand was forced.
Yet some French staff, according to beIN Sports, believe the pair’s illnesses came about thanks to England’s team.
The report claims Rabiot and Upamecano contracted a cold from England’s players during the match itself, yet there is no way to confirm this.
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The other theory behind the duo’s absence is due to the air conditioning in just about every stadium and venue.
French outlet L’Equipe reports the air-con at the team’s base in Qatar, the Al Messila Resort and Spa in Doha, has contributed to Rabiot and Upamecano’s downturn in health.
But again, there’s no way to confirm the theory.
Rabiot and Upamecano were not believed to have contracted Covid and the latter’s presence on the bench all but confirms that.
However, players at the World Cup have not been required to take any Covid tests even if they display any symptoms.
Should France make the final, Deschamps will no doubt have his fingers and toes crossed Upamecano and Rabiot can return to full fitness, but such is the depth within the defending champs’ squad they won’t have an issue replacing the pair again if needed.