Why Is Manu Kone Not Playing Today for France vs. Spain in the World Cup Semifinal Match?

France will face their biggest test in the 2026 World Cup when they play Spain today in the 2026 World Cup semifinal.

The matchup is crucial for both national teams, and France head coach Didier Deschamps has made a bold call in selecting the players for his starting XI against Spain today.

One big change is benching the midfielder Kouadio 'Manu' Koné, who started in the last two games for France in the knockout stages. Koné started in four out of France's six games in the 2026 World Cup.

Koné has impressed many fans in the 2026 World Cup and played 71 minutes against Morocco in the quarterfinals last week.

Is Kouadio 'Manu' Koné Injured?

Kouadio 'Manu' Koné is not injured and is on the bench and available to play for France against Spain.

Koné is replaced by Aurélien Tchouaméni, who was the first-choice defensive midfielder in the France team, but the Real Madrid star suffered an injury and missed two games in the 2026 World Cup.

Koné was Tchouaméni's replacement in the starting lineup, and some French fans argue that he should have kept his spot in the starting lineup after impressive performances in the tournament so far.

Koné is expected to get minutes in the second half against Spain.

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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 11:55 AM.