France head coach Didier Deschamps has named his World Cup squad ahead of next months tournament as Les Bleus look to win their crown back from Argentina.The European nation came close to defending the title in Qatar four years ago, but were pipped by Lionel Messi and Co in the final.And their squad looks as strong as ever heading into the summer, and they boast one of the strongest attacks in football.Kylian Mbappe will feature despite a fractured end to his season at Real Madrid, while Ballon dOr winner Ousmane Dembele is set to play a leading role, alongside Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Desire Doue.Michael Olise has been on fire for Bayern Munich as they chase a domestic Treble under Vincent Kompany, and he will be keen to make his mark in the US, Canada and Mexico.Arsenals William Saliba will play a big role in defence, as he closes in on the Premier League title and a Champions League final against some of his international team-mates.Table of ContentsDeschamps explains squad decisionFrance squad in fullWho will France play in the World Cup?Deschamps explains squad decisionDeschamps had some tough calls to make, with France having such a plethora of talent available. He appears to have gone heavy in attack, with the likes of Eduardo Camavinga missing out as a result.Speaking at the squad announcement on Thursday, he said: The main criteria is sporting performance. I understand that Lucas Chevalier may be disappointed, but he hasnt played for several months anymore. At the time when he could have had some playing time, he didnt get any.I have ambition, and I want the players to have it too. But I dont want us to lose our humility. Im not going to hide and say were not among the teams with the potential to become world champions.But there are eight, maybe 10 teams that can say that. Its not by shouting: Were the best, were the strongest.'France squad in fullGoalkeepers: Maignan, Risser, SambaDefenders: Digne, Gusto, Hernandez, Hernandez, Konate, Kounde, Lacroix, Saliba, UpamecanoMidfielders: Kante, Kone, Rabiot, Tchouameni, Zaire-EmeryAttackers: Akliouche, Barcola, Cherki, Dembele, Doue, Mateta, Mbappe, Olise, ThuramWho will France play in the World Cup?France have been drawn into Group I for this summers World Cup, and will face Senegal, Norway and Iraq in their first three fixtures.June 16: France vs SenegalJune 22: France vs IraqJune 26: Norway vs France Topics 2026 FIFA World Cup France National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Ancelotti extends Brazil stay until 2030 Nicholas McGee 14th May, 2026 Brighton boss unsure if Mitoma will miss World Cup as Japan star ruled out for final two games Nicholas McGee 14th May, 2026 United States suffer setback as key midfielder ruled out of World Cup Nicholas McGee 11th May, 2026 World Cup 2026: Dzeko to emulate Roger Milla after being named in Bosnia squad Nicholas McGee 11th May, 2026 How long is Lamine Yamal out? Latest news, injury update and Barcelona and Spain wingers reaction to hamstring problem before 2026 FIFA World Cup Ben Miller 8th May, 2026 Atletico Madrid: USMNT midfielder Cardoso suffers high-ankle sprain as home World Cup looms Nicholas McGee 7th May, 2026
