Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé headline the 26-man squad named by Didier Deschamps for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as France prepares for the tournament in United States, Canada and Mexico.
Deschamps unveiled his squad on Thursday, retaining several experienced stars while blending them with emerging talents for what will be his final World Cup as head coach of France national football team. The veteran manager led France to World Cup triumph in 2018 and is expected to step down after the 2026 tournament.
Mbappé is set to lead the team despite concerns over a thigh injury he sustained last month, which ruled him out of some crucial matches for Real Madrid during the closing stages of the La Liga season. The striker is nevertheless expected to captain the French side in North America.
France’s attack also features an impressive lineup including Ballon d’Or winner Dembélé, rising star Désiré Doué and winger Michael Olise.
One of the standout inclusions is Rayan Cherki, who will make his World Cup debut after an impressive first season with Manchester City. In defence, William Saliba is expected to play a key role after another strong campaign with Arsenal.
Only four players from France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad remain in the team, Mbappé, Dembélé, Lucas Hernandez and N’Golo Kanté highlighting the transition within the squad over the past eight years.
The selected team includes top names across Europe, with Mike Maignan among the goalkeepers, defenders such as Jules Koundé and Ibrahima Konaté, and midfielders like Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot.
With a blend of experience and youthful energy, France will once again be considered among the favourites for the global tournament.
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