France have suffered another injury after Lucas Hernandez’s exclusion from the World Cup.
The Bayern Munich left-back limped off the pitch during the first half of the Blues’ opener against Australia on Tuesday, which they won 4-1.
France confirmed the worst fears on Wednesday morning.
“Lucas Hernandez had to withdraw from the World Cup after rupturing his ACL in his right knee. The whole team wishes him the best possible recovery,” France’s official Twitter account said.
Hernandez was replaced by his brother, AC Milan full-back Theo Hernandez after 13 minutes.
The defender’s withdrawal leaves Didier Deschamps with just 24 players in his squad, down from a maximum of 26, after deciding against calling up a replacement for Karim Benzema at the weekend.
“I feel extremely sorry for Lucas,” Deschamps said.
“We are losing an important element. Lucas is a warrior and I have no doubt that he will do everything possible to get back into the game. On behalf of the group, I wish him the best possible recovery.”
Ballon d’Or winner Benzema was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury on the eve of the start of the tournament.
France are also without Christopher Nkunku, Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Presnel Kimpembe and Mike Maignan in Qatar.
They got off to a good start in their title defense against Australia.
Craig Goodwin gave the Socceroos a shocking lead but France reacted strongly as goals from Adrien Rabiot, Kylian Mbappe and a brace from Olivier Giroud gave them a comfortable victory.
