France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Deschamps submitted a 25-player list — one fewer than the maximum 26 FIFA permits. No official explanation has been given for the decision, though it likely reflects squad harmony considerations given the depth of attacking options available.

The most discussed absence is Antoine Griezmann, who retired from international football in September 2024 following Euro 2024. His 137 goals make him France's all-time top scorer. His exit closes one of the great chapters in Les Bleus history — and opens questions about who carries the squad's second-half creativity beyond Mbappé.

Randal Kolo Muani's omission is also significant. The Paris Saint-Germain forward spent 2024-25 on loan at Juventus, where his form was inconsistent. Deschamps chose Maghnes Akliouche and Rayan Cherki — younger, more in-form options — over Kolo Muani's experience.

N'Golo Kanté's inclusion at 35 is a statement. Many expected his spell at Al-Ittihad to end his France career, but Deschamps has consistently recalled him when fit. With Manu Koné alongside him, France's midfield has rare depth and physicality.

Six players in this squad play for Paris Saint-Germain: Ousmane Dembélé, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Rayan Cherki, Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola, and Lucas Hernandez. Add Mbappé (Real Madrid) and this is a squad that has been shaped, for better or worse, by PSG's academy and transfer philosophy.

The attacking depth is extraordinary and potentially unmanageable — Mbappé, Dembélé, Olise, Cherki, Doué, Barcola, Thuram, Akliouche and Mateta is nine forwards for perhaps three starting positions. The question is not whether France have enough firepower; it is whether Deschamps can keep nine attacking players happy and sharp across a seven-match tournament.

Robin Risser as the third goalkeeper is the one selection that raises eyebrows. The Strasbourg keeper has limited senior international experience, but Deschamps has a long history of rewarding consistent domestic form.