Mbappe and Dembele Headline France’s Star-Packed World Cup Squad

France manager Didier Deschamps has unveiled a powerful 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup, with Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele set to spearhead one of the tournament’s most feared attacks.

Mbappe, now on 56 international goals, continues to close in on Olivier Giroud’s all-time France scoring record of 57. Despite concerns surrounding a recent thigh injury, the Real Madrid forward is expected to captain Les Bleus as they chase a third World Cup title. Deschamps has once again placed his trust in the 27-year-old, who remains the focal point of France’s ambitions.

Alongside him is Dembele, fresh from a sensational campaign with Paris Saint-Germain. The winger scored 35 goals and helped PSG lift the Champions League trophy before becoming only the second French player this century to win the Ballon d’Or. However, despite appearing in the previous two World Cups, Dembele is still searching for his first goal on football’s biggest stage.

France’s attacking options look especially dangerous with Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise and PSG youngster Desire Doue also included. Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki adds further creativity, while Marcus Thuram, Bradley Barcola and Jean-Philippe Mateta provide depth and variety in attack.

Deschamps has also retained important experience within the squad. Lucas Hernandez, N’Golo Kante, Mbappe and Dembele are the only remaining members from France’s 2018 World Cup-winning side. Arsenal centre-back William Saliba and Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate are among seven Premier League-based players selected.

There were several surprise omissions. Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga and Tottenham forward Randal Kolo Muani, both involved in the 2022 World Cup, failed to make the final cut. PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier was also left out, with uncapped Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser earning a place as backup to Mike Maignan and Brice Samba.

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike was another notable absentee after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in April.

Speaking to French broadcaster TF1, Deschamps defended his decisions and stressed the importance of squad balance over individual quality.

“It’s a squad. Not necessarily the 26 best players. It’s about balance and how the team comes together,” Deschamps said.

France will open their World Cup campaign against Senegal in New Jersey on June 16 before facing Iraq and Norway in their remaining Group I fixtures. With a blend of proven stars, emerging talent and tournament experience, France once again look set to be among the favourites for global glory.

France World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Robin Risser (Lens), Brice Samba (Rennes)

Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Lucas Hernandez (Paris St-Germain), Theo Hernandez (Al Hilal), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamenaco (Bayern Munich)

Midfielders: N’Golo Kante (Fenerbache), Manu Kone (Roma), Adrien Rabiot (AC Milan), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris St-Germain)

Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche (Monaco), Bradley Barcola (Paris St-Germain), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Ousmane Dembele (Paris St-Germain), Desire Doue (Paris St-Germain), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Jean-Phillipe Mateta (Crystal Palace), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)