France Recalls Matthieu Jalibert for Six Nations Murrayfield Clash as Fabien Galthie Targets Back-to-Back Titles

France head coach Fabien Galthie recalls Matthieu Jalibert and centers Moefana and Depoortere for the must-win Six Nations game against Scotland at Murrayfield.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 5, 2026, 8:51 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from CNA

Reinstating the Winning Formula for Edinburgh

France has opted for continuity and proven talent by recalling the starting lineup that secured a dominant opening victory against Ireland for this Saturday’s Six Nations encounter in Scotland. Flyhalf Matthieu Jalibert, who missed the previous victory over Italy due to injury, returns to the pivotal number ten role to lead the French backline. Head coach Fabien Galthie’s decision signals a clear intent to prioritize technical cohesion at Murrayfield, where a bonus-point win would mathematically secure a second consecutive Six Nations title for Les Bleus with one round of play remaining.

Reinforced Midfield and Tactical Adjustments

The French squad receives a significant boost with the return of centers Yoram Moefana and Nicolas Depoortere, both of whom have recovered from recent injuries. Their reinstatement comes as Fabien Brau-Boirie is sidelined with a dislocated finger, an injury Galthie confirmed was too severe to risk for the weekend’s fixture. According to Galthie, the coaching staff felt it was essential to return to the midfield pairing that initiated the tournament’s campaign, noting their high level of performance before their enforced absence from the squad.

Strategic Rotations in the Second Row

In a tactical reshuffle, Galthie has promoted Mickael Guillard and Charles Ollivon back into the starting second row, shifting Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou to the replacements bench. This move appears to be a management of player workload and fitness, as Flament has been nursing a calf issue throughout the training week. Galthie emphasized that while Ollivon and Guillard are currently in peak physical condition, the depth provided by the bench remains a critical component of the French strategy to counter Scotland’s high-tempo style of play.