France make last minute change to World Cup squad before heading to Qatar
Didier Deschamps became just the third man to win the World Cup as a player and a manager when his France side lifted the title in Russia in 2018
www.mirror.co.ukHere’s the latest on France’s World Cup squad based on recent reporting up to mid-May 2026.
Direct answer
- Didier Deschamps has named a star-studded 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, led by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, with several high-profile names returning and a few surprising inclusions and omissions.[2][4]
- Notable selections include young goalkeeper Robin Risser and forward Jean-Philippe Mateta among the surprises, while some big-name injuries and absences influenced the final fold of players.[4][2]
- France’s squad features a deep pool across defense, midfield, and attack, continuing Deschamps’ pattern of leveraging outstanding depth to push for a third World Cup title.[6][4]
Context and key details
- The squad announcement followed France’s ongoing build-up, with the team widely viewed as one of the favorites for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Mbappé remains the cornerstone of the attack, supported by Dembele and others in a potent forward line.[4][6]
- There were discussions around injuries affecting selections, including the absence of certain players who had been mainstays in past campaigns, and some late inclusions aimed at balancing youth with experience.[7][2][4]
What to watch for
- Final warm-up friendlies and training camp performances can influence any last-minute tweaks, though the 26-man squad is generally set for the group stage.[4]
- France’s group-stage opponents and schedule will shape how Deschamps deploys his varied attacking options and whether certain players see extended minutes or tactical roles.[6][4]
Illustration
- A typical breakdown of a France 26-man World Cup squad tends to include:
- Goalkeepers: 2–3
- Defenders: 7–8
- Midfielders: 5–6
- Forwards: 7–9 This structure helps balance the squad for multiple formations and match scenarios, reflecting Deschamps’ approach this year.[4]
Citations
- France’s star-studded 26-man squad announcement and the inclusion of Mbappé, Dembélé, and other attacking talents are reported in multiple outlets.[4]
- Surprises like Robin Risser and Jean-Philippe Mateta are noted as notable inclusions in coverage of the squad.[2][4]
- Analyses emphasize France’s depth and ongoing status as title contenders, referencing the broader context of Deschamps’ selection pattern.[6][4]