French World Cup Squad Features Seven Premier League Stars
France’s national team has announced its squad for the upcoming World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, and the French side, led by manager Didier Deschamps, aims to go one step further than their performance in the last World Cup, where they were crowned champions but lost to Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The squad features an impressive array of talent, with seven players currently playing in the Premier League. This includes Lucas Digne, Malo Gusto, Ibrahima Konate, William Saliba, and Rayan Cherki. However, the most notable inclusion from a Premier League perspective is the presence of two Crystal Palace players: Jean-Philippe Mateta and Maxence Lacroix.
Mateta and Lacroix have both made significant contributions this season, with Lacroix earning his first international call-up in March and making two appearances. Mateta, on the other hand, made his debut in October. His journey to the World Cup squad was not without challenges, as his move to AC Milan fell through after he failed a medical. Despite this setback, Mateta has since returned to form and was chosen over Randal Kolo Muani in Deschamps’ final 26-man list.
Mateta’s inclusion in the squad brings back memories of his previous World Cup appearance in 2018, when he was a late addition to the team. He scored a crucial goal against Morocco in the semi-finals and came close to becoming a national hero in the final before Emi Martinez denied him in extra time. His presence in this year’s squad is a testament to his resilience and determination.
France’s attacking options are among the strongest in the tournament, featuring world-class talents such as Kylian Mbappe, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, rising star Desire Doue, former Palace forward Michael Olise, Cherki, and Maghnes Akliouche. The squad also includes a mix of experienced players and emerging stars, ensuring a balanced approach to the competition.
However, some notable names have been left out. Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga and PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier were omitted from the squad. Chevalier, who has not played since January, was replaced by Matvey Safonov at his club. Deschamps explained that the decision was based on sporting performance, acknowledging that Chevalier may feel disappointed but emphasizing that he hasn’t had the opportunity to play recently.
Camavinga, who struggled with injuries and limited playing time this season, was also left out. Deschamps expressed understanding of the player’s disappointment but highlighted the need to make tough decisions for the team’s success. Similarly, Lens winger Florian Thauvin, despite being nominated for Ligue 1’s player of the season, did not receive a call-up.
On the other hand, goalkeeper Robin Risser, who plays for Lens, has been included in the squad following a breakthrough season. Risser, who won the award for the best goalkeeper earlier this week, played a key role in helping Lens secure the second-best defense in Ligue 1. His inclusion in the squad as a backup to Mike Maignan and Brice Samba is a well-deserved recognition of his performances.
France World Cup Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers:
Mike Maignan
Brice Samba
* Robin Risser
Defenders:
Lucas Digne
Malo Gusto
Lucas Hernandez
Theo Hernandez
Ibrahima Konate
Jules Kounde
Maxence Lacroix
William Saliba
* Dayot Upamecano
Midfielders:
N’Golo Kante
Manu Kone
Adrien Rabiot
Aurelien Tchouameni
* Warren Zaire-Emery
Forwards:
Maghnes Akliouche
Bradley Barcola
Rayan Cherki
Ousmane Dembele
Desire Doue
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Kylian Mbappe
Michael Olise
* Marcus Thuram
France, who are among the favorites to win the tournament, have been drawn in Group I alongside Senegal, Iraq, and Norway. This will be Deschamps’ final tournament as head coach, as he has announced his retirement from the role after the World Cup. His tenure, which began in 2012, has been marked by numerous successes, including the 2018 World Cup title.
Deschamps reflected on the significance of this moment, stating, “It’s a special feeling. I did many things today for the last time.” He emphasized the team’s focus on the upcoming World Cup, highlighting the importance of the present and future.
Zinedine Zidane is expected to take over as the new head coach, although he has not been involved in coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. The transition marks a new chapter for French football, with high expectations for the team’s performance in the coming months.
