France Announce World Cup Squad

France have announced their 26-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with coach Didier Deschamps selecting a largely expected group for the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The squad contains no major surprises, according to the announcement, and Deschamps is set to leave his role following the conclusion of the World Cup.

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé will captain the side, continuing his leadership role for the national team. The squad also includes Ousmane Dembélé, the current Ballon d’Or winner, underlining France’s reliance on both established international performers and in-form players from Europe’s top clubs.

The selection features a blend of experience and World Cup-winning pedigree. Among those included are Mbappé, Dembélé, N’Golo Kanté and Lucas Hernández, all of whom have previously been part of France’s successful international campaigns. At the same time, several notable omissions and absences have been confirmed. Antoine Griezmann, who has retired from international football, does not return to the squad. Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has been left out, while forward Randal Kolo Muani has also not been selected.

France will compete in Group I, alongside Senegal, Iraq and Norway. Their World Cup campaign will begin on 16 June with a fixture against Senegal, marking their opening match of the group stage.

France 26-man World Cup Squad

The squad reflects a balance between established international players and emerging talents. In defence, France have retained a core group of players competing at the highest level of European football, providing continuity and depth across the back line. The midfield includes experienced figures alongside younger prospects, offering tactical flexibility and squad rotation options.

In attack, the selection is led by Mbappé, supported by Dembélé and Marcus Thuram, alongside several younger forwards who have been included to strengthen depth in the attacking unit. The overall composition of the squad suggests a focus on maintaining stability while integrating emerging players into a high-level tournament environment.

France’s campaign will therefore begin with a group stage schedule featuring Senegal, Iraq and Norway, with their opening match set for 16 June against Senegal.