Umtiti makes Euro 2016 debut with France ahead of Barça move

Umtiti makes Euro 2016 debut with France ahead of Barça move

Didier Deschamps was deliberately elusive in the press conference prior to France's quarter-final against Iceland, but in the end the predictions have been confirmed: Samuel Umtiti will start the game in central defence.

The absence of Adil Rami through suspension offers Umtiti the chance to play, ahead of Eliaquim Mangala of Manchester City.

Deschamps had said on Saturday: "Umtiti has all the qualities to be an elite defender".

Since being linked with Barça, the centre-back had not been able to partake in any match, so Sunday night will be his first appearance and a golden chance to show Barcelona fans his quality.

Umtiti will partner Laurent Koscielny at the heart of the French defence, with Bacary Sagna and Patrice Evra at full-back.