Nordi Mukiele right to feel hard done by as France World Cup squad named
Nordi Mukiele has not been called up to the France squad for the World Cup.
It goes without saying, but Sunderland have had an excellent campaign back in the Premier League, only amplified by the fact that they are still in the European conversation with two games to go.
And for that success, several figures deserve their plaudits, perhaps no more than Regis Le Bris, who has been nominated for the Premier League Manager of the Season award.
Several players have thrived in their debut season at the Stadium of Light, including the likes of Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs and Nordi Mukiele.
And having missed out on a spot on France’s World Cup squad, the latter has every right to question what more he needs to do.
Stats show why Nordi Mukiele has been robbed
Mukiele has had an excellent season with Sunderland, and the fact that he has seven goal involvements only amplifies that, given the role he is asked to play.
However, his defensive numbers this season are what deserve the most attention, and also showcase why he deserved a call-up.
| Premier League | Mukiele |
| Games | 30 |
| G/A | 7 |
| Chances created | 22 |
| Duels won | 173 |
| Tackles | 67 |
| Interceptions | 36 |
The Frenchman has won a remarkable 75 aerial duels this season, which is bettered by only 3.6 per cent of players in his position.
Mukiele has won a total of 173 duels in the Premier League, with a 59.5 per cent win rate.
On top of that, Mukiele has created seven big chances this season, which also places him among the top six per cent of players in the top flight for his position.
With 258 defensive contributions in the Premier League, Mukiele ranks among the top 3.6 per cent of defenders, again highlighting his importance.
The main reason Mukiele has been snubbed
If Mukiele had performed the way he has for any of the so-called big six, he would have been in the France squad, no questions asked.
Simply put, he has been one of the best defenders in the Premier League this season and has played a huge role in Sunderland’s overperformance.
At 28 years old, he still has a chance of making a major tournament with France, and if he can maintain the levels he has demonstrated this season, his inclusion will not be in doubt.
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