France manager Didier Deschamps has unveiled a formidable 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with captain Kylian Mbappe leading a squad packed with experience, emerging talents and attacking firepower as Les Bleus prepare for another title push in North America.
The squad, announced on Thursday ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, largely reflects the core of the side that reached the 2022 World Cup final, while also introducing a new generation expected to shape the future of French football.
Mbappe, now 27 and France’s undisputed talisman, was included despite concerns over a thigh injury suffered during the closing weeks of Real Madrid’s La Liga campaign. The striker missed several important matches recently, but Deschamps appears confident he will recover in time for the start of the tournament.
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The French attack also includes Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, PSG youngsters Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue, as well as Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram.
One of the biggest talking points from the announcement was the inclusion of Rayan Cherki. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder earned his first World Cup selection after a standout debut season at Manchester City, where his creativity and versatility impressed across domestic and European competitions.
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta and defender Maxence Lacroix also made the final cut, highlighting Deschamps’ willingness to reward strong club performances ahead of the tournament.
However, there were notable omissions.
Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga was left out after an injury-disrupted campaign, while Randal Kolo Muani failed to secure a place in the final squad. Deschamps admitted the decisions were difficult but insisted the balance of the squad was his priority heading into what will be his final tournament in charge of the national team.
Deschamps, who guided France to World Cup glory in Russia in 2018 and another final appearance in Qatar four years later, has already confirmed he will step down after the 2026 tournament. His impending departure has intensified scrutiny around whether this talented generation can deliver a third World Cup title for France.
Defensively, Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Barcelona defender Jules Kounde are expected to form the backbone of a side considered among the favourites for the tournament. Veteran midfielder N’Golo Kante, one of the few surviving members of the 2018-winning squad, also returns alongside Lucas Hernandez and Mbappe.
France have been drawn in Group I alongside Senegal, Iraq and Norway, with their opening fixture scheduled for June 16 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The depth of attacking options available to Deschamps has already sparked excitement among supporters and analysts, especially with several players arriving in strong form from Europe’s top leagues. Discussions following the squad announcement have largely focused on France’s abundance of forwards and relatively lean midfield options, a possible indication that Deschamps intends to adopt a more aggressive tactical setup during the competition.
With Mbappe entering what many believe should be the peak years of his career, expectations are once again enormous for Les Bleus as they chase another global crown and prepare for life after the Deschamps era.
