Mathieu Valbuena’s significance for the current French side can be estimated by the extreme criticism suffered by Didier Deschamps when he chose to leave the playmaker out for France’s 0-2 away loss to Ukraine in the World Cup qualifying playoff first leg. Valbuena was subsequently restored to the side and created a goal as France overturned the deficit at home.
For long misunderstood as a winger, the diminutive Olympique de Marseille player has established himself as an astute playmaker in recent years. Valbuena’s ability to unravel defences with perfectly-weighed through balls is exceptional.
Admittedly, the 29-year-old comes into the World Cup after a disappointing season for Marseille. Valbuena could manage only three goals and six assists in Ligue 1 as his club finished sixth.
Although mostly deployed behind the striker for Marseille, he will be seen as a wide playmaker in Brazil with a license to drift inside. In fact, Valbuena’s role is primarily creative as he rarely contributes through goals.
