In an exciting time for French football, young talent Désiré Doué of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to make his debut for the national team. The anticipated match against Croatia will take place tonight, March 20, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Doué's burgeoning career.
Doué, who joined PSG in the summer of 2024, has quickly become one of the standout players in the league. Having played 39 matches so far this season, he has impressed by scoring seven goals and providing eleven assists. His consistent performance caught the attention of French head coach Didier Deschamps, who has selected him for the national squad for the first time. Doué's potential debut will come during the quarter-finals of the Nations League, a crucial stage that showcases the finest talents in European football.
Originally hailing from Angers, France, Doué's family has deep roots in sports. His father is Ivorian and his mother is French, while he also has a brother, Guéla, and a cousin, Yann Ghobo, both of whom are professional footballers. Adding to the family's connection to football, Doué's uncle officiated at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil during a match between France and Ecuador, where Didier Deschamps was the coach.
Reflecting on his selection, Doué shared his excitement: “When you are young, you have dreams, and this has always been one of my biggest dreams, to join the French team. This is a dream come true, and I am very happy.” His positive outlook reflects his anticipation for the coming match: “I’m just excited to get started. There will be great matches ahead, and I’m aiming to integrate well into the team.”
Désiré Doué spent his formative years at Stade Rennais, beginning from the age of six, before making the move to Paris just a few months ago. His journey has not been devoid of challenges; he nearly quit football during his youth when a coach suggested he play in a defensive position. However, he persevered, and his dazzling skills have certainly paid off.
Mathys Tel, a former teammate of Doué at the French youth teams and currently playing for Tottenham, expressed his joy at Doué’s selection. Tel remarked, “I spoke with Désiré about his selection? Yes, we talk all the time. We always encourage each other. It’s huge what he’s doing and he deserves what’s happening for him. He works hard, and I’m not surprised that he’s in the team and I hope he stays there for a long time.” Tel’s encouragement signifies the close bond between young athletes navigating the pressures of professional football.
As the match against Croatia approaches, both fans and analysts are eager to see how Doué will perform on such a significant stage. The quarter-final is set to kick off at 20:45 (8:45 PM) local time and will be broadcast live. This match is not only vital for Doué but also for the French national team as they aim to progress further in the tournament.
Looking ahead, the return match will be held on March 23, 2025, at the Stade de France, sparking even more anticipation for what is to come in this competitive series. Doué's debut represents more than just a personal achievement; it symbolizes the new generation rising within French football.
In a country where football is deeply woven into its cultural fabric, Doué's journey is sure to inspire many young athletes who dream of achieving their goals on the international stage. As he gets ready to don the blue jersey, there is no doubt great expectations rest on his shoulders, but with his remarkable talent and unwavering dedication, Déjà Doué may just be beginning a truly stellar career.
