Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterMatuidi, now 39, knows a thing or two about what it takes to go all the way at the FIFA World Cup.He was a key player for Les Bleus in their run to the final in 2018, which culminated in a resounding victory over Croatia, the French national teams second World Cup title.Four years later, the French were beaten in Qatar, as Lionel Messis Argentina defeated the holders on penalties after what had been a gripping, enthralling final.'France can go all the way again'Not since 2002 has a country played in three consecutive World Cup finals, when Brazil won their record fifth title with victory against Germany. But, France are vying to match that feat in North America.Matuidi has played in and scored at the World Cup, representing France in 2014 and 2018. And while he didnt get on the scoresheet during their 2018 triumph, his performances in the middle of the park alongside the metronomic Paul Pogba were integral to Les Bleus success. You may like France squad World Cup 2026: Didier Deschamps' team look to go one better than four years ago The offensive talent France possesses is special. Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele can both lead the team this summer Olivier Giroud on Frances World Cup firepower Weve seen with other France captains in the past that wearing the armband brought out the best in them. Kylian Mbappe understands that he has to do the same Frank Leboeuf on Mbappes leadership qualities PLAY our FREE World Cup match predictor and WIN a share of �1k When I was in the national team my favourite roommate was Paul Pogba, because we had many years together. Since 2013, we were together and spent a lot of time in national team together, Matuidi told FourFourTwo at a MatchWornShirt exhibition event in New York City.Also outside - his family knew my family. My parents were living in a city where his parents were also living so we spent time like this together.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Thick as thieves on the pitch, and seemingly off it, too, Matuidi and Pogba were a winning combination for France in Russia - but is the current Les Bleus crop better than the heroes of 2018?I hope that France will go all the way. They have to take [it] step by step, game after game. But, they have the talent and the quality.There is many talented players, they have the quality especially offensively. Even defensively when you see [Dayot] Upamecano, hes a monster. What to read next How to watch Kylian Mbappe at the 2026 FIFA World Cup How to watch France vs Ivory Coast for FREE: Live stream details With Lionel Messi, Argentina will be a major contender again for this World Cup. He knows better than anyone what the team needs Javier Zanetti assesses Argentinas chances this summer If you have to choose one I say [Michael] Olise at the moment is doing so well. He does everything, he knows what to do with the ball and without the ball, so hes a player that can change the game in one minute.In a side that boasts the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe and Desire Doue, that is some endorsement from a decorated individual whos been there and done it before.No pressure, Micky.The craziest thing I saw was when we landed in Paris, all the people, on the bridges - that was something Id never seen before in my life, Matuidi adds, recalling the scenes upon returning home in 2018.It doesnt matter the colour of the people, they were all together and everywhere [people hanging out] all the windows from the airport to the Champs-Elysees - that was a fantastic atmosphere, fantastic moment and one that will stay in my head for my life.TOPICSBlaise MatuidiMichael OliseDayot UpamecanoWorld CupWorld Cup 2026Joe DonnohueSocial Links NavigationSenior Digital WriterJoe joined FourFourTwo as senior digital writer in July 2025 after five years covering Leeds United in the Championship and Premier League. Joe's 'Mastermind' specialist subject is 2000s-era Newcastle United having had a season ticket at St. James' Park for 10 years before relocating to Leeds and later London. Joe takes a keen interest in youth football, covering PL2, U21 Euros, as well as U20 and U17 World Cups in the past, in addition to hosting the industry-leading football recruitment-focused SCOUTED podcast. He is also one of the lucky few to have 'hit top bins' as a contestant on Soccer AM. It wasn't a shin-roller.
