Thierry Henry cautions that France faces a challenging road ahead after the groups for the men’s and women’s football tournaments were announced for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Southgate denies talk of rift with White after Arsenal defender’s England snub

England manager Gareth Southgate has dismissed any suggestions of a rift with Arsenal defender Ben White, following his omission from the national team. White, who has been in impressive form for his club, was left out of the latest England squad, leading to speculation of a disagreement between him and Southgate. However, the manager has insisted that there is no issue and that White remains part of his plans for the future.

Thierry Henry expects a tough challenge for France in the group stage of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The draw has placed the host nation in Group A alongside the United States, New Zealand, and the winners of a playoff between an Asian Federation side and Guinea. Henry, who is part of the coaching staff for the French team, acknowledged that winning a home tournament is never easy, but expressed his determination to make it happen.

The group-stage draw for the men’s football event also revealed some intriguing matchups. World Cup holders Argentina find themselves in Group B alongside Morocco, Ukraine, and an Asian qualifier. Group C features another Asian team, along with Spain, Egypt, and the Dominican Republic. Group D will see Paraguay, Mali, Israel, and the final Asian qualifier go head-to-head. With holders Brazil failing to qualify, a new champion will be crowned in France.

Argentina’s coach, Javier Mascherano, has left the door open for Lionel Messi to join the squad for the Olympics. Messi, who won a gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, could have another opportunity to add to his collection. Great Britain, on the other hand, will be making their return to the men’s football event after missing out on the previous edition in 2012.

In the women’s draw, Spain, the reigning world champions, have been drawn in Group A alongside Brazil, Japan, and the winner of an African playoff between Nigeria and South Africa. Group B promises to be a heavyweight battle, with the United States, Germany, Australia, and either Zambia or Morocco facing off. Hosts France will compete in Group A against Colombia, Canada, and New Zealand.

The tournament will take place across seven French cities, including Paris, Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Saint-Etienne. Football fans can look forward to an exciting and highly competitive event as teams from around the world vie for Olympic glory.