France Announces 26-Man Squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 Led by Captain Kylian Mbappé

France has announced a 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with captain Kylian Mbappé leading the team. Coach Didier Deschamps prioritized a balance between experienced and young players in the selection. The squad includes the current Ballon d’Or winner, Ousmane Dembélé. The attacking line features players such as Michael Olise, Tchouaméni, Ryan Cherki, and Marcus Thuram. In defense, William Saliba, Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, and Lucas Hernandez have been included. The midfield will be strengthened by experienced players N’Golo Kanté, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Adrien Rabiot.

Notably, Eduardo Camavinga and Randal Kolo Muani have been left out of the squad, which came as a surprise to some. Coach Deschamps, while announcing the team, stated, “This is not just a list of the 26 best players but a group assembled with careful consideration of team balance.” France will begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 against Senegal, followed by group stage matches against Iraq and Norway.