Manu Koné

Analysis: Kone was more of a pivot in the midfield for France, but still failed to get on the ball all that much compared to previous games, only completing 35 passes before exiting. He would earn a shot and a chance created in the attack to go along with a tackle won and an interception in the defense. He continues to be a likely starter until Aurelien Tchouameni is ready to start again, which could come in the semifinals against either Spain or Belgium.

Jul 4, 2026

All-around impact versus Paraguay

Kone generated three shots (one on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 1-0 victory versus Paraguay. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 81st minute.

Analysis: Kone led his team with 66 accurate passes Saturday while adding four ball recoveries, and he even attempted a few shots, although they were mostly weak long-range efforts. He bounced back to the starting XI due to Aurelien Tchouameni's (thigh) injury absence, and it's now a viable possibility that the Roma man will get more opportunities if his teammate faces a longer spell on the sidelines. Although he's a rather complete midfielder, Kone can't be expected to score or assist and could instead focus on maintaining possession and disrupting opponents' attacks in the final stages of the competition.