Lucas Chevalier overtakes Brice Samba in the hierarchy of France goalkeepers | OneFootball

Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier (23) is now Mike Maignan’s (29) designated understudy in the France set-up, according to L’Equipe. The outlet reports that the decision to demote Brice Samba (31) as the No. 3 goalkeeper was made during Les Bleus‘ training camp in Clairefontaine in the last few days. The decision comes as no surprise given the Lille goalkeeper’s progression in the last months. Chevalier was called up for the first time for France eight months ago, for the November international break. The 23-year-old then took West Ham’s Alphonse Areola’s spot as the No. 3 France goalkeeper.

Chevalier’s progression also intervenes at a time when Samba struggles to recover the fine form that earned him a spot in France’s set-up in the first place. The former Nottingham Forest goalie left RC Lens for Rennes in the winter transfer window. Rennes’ lack of European competition next season may also have proven detrimental to Samba’s position as France’s No. 2 goalkeeper.

L’Equipe adds that Chevalier’s promotion within the hierarchy of France goalkeepers could encourage him not to pursue a move elsewhere in the summer. The Lille Academy product is tied with his formative club over a contract set to expire in 2027.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval