This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration involving top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. Daily previews are being provided by various outlets leading up to the tournament set to begin on June 11.
“It is a pain to watch, but it makes you win,” summarizes France’s approach under Didier Deschamps, according to Antoine Griezmann during Euro 2024, where Les Bleus made it to the semi-finals. Goals, however, were scarce; in the match against Spain, Randal Kolo Muani was the sole player to score from open play, with the other goals resulting from penalties or own goals.
This period showcased France at their most cautious. Deschamps’s tactics seemed to be under scrutiny, but during France’s US tour in March, the squad found their attacking rhythm, netting five goals across two matches against Brazil and Colombia. Deschamps expressed his desire for the team to be “less predictable and readable” yet the question remains whether their defensive strength will be compromised for a more adventurous style. “At times, we’ve been a bit on the limit,” he noted.
Yet, the defense is still robust; only four European teams conceded fewer goals than France during qualifying. The team boasts an impressive array of attacking talent, featuring captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise. Defender Lucas Hernandez claims France possesses “the best attack in the world” a statement hard to dispute given the individual talents available. The real challenge for Deschamps lies in crafting these players into a cohesive unit, especially after Olivier Giroud’s retirement from international football in 2024. The March friendlies indicated a positive balance, but whether this more expansive style will be deployed remains a pivotal question.
The Coach
Didier Deschamps has set the benchmark for international management, his conservative and pragmatic style being emulated by many, including Gareth Southgate during his tenure with England. Despite leading France to consecutive World Cup finals and a Euros final throughout his 12-year reign, his methods have faced regular criticism. In response to detractors, he bluntly stated, “Watch something else, then,” His successful track record vindicates his approach, and as he prepares to step down from Les Bleus this summer, he is unlikely to alter his strategy. His previous successes with Monaco and Marseille indicate he may consider a return to club management.
Star Player
Kylian Mbappé commands an extraordinary lineup and continues to be the focal point of the team, a role he has held since leading France to World Cup victory in 2018. Transitioning from an electrifying winger to a prolific striker, he now operates as a No 9, with the French attack structured around his capabilities. Mbappé is poised to surpass Giroud as the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer.
One to Watch
Warren Zaïre-Emery, at just 20 years old, has already encountered significant highs and lows in his career. Making his France debut at 17 and heralded as the next big talent, injuries and a dip in form saw him fall down the ranks at PSG, leading to a stint with the France Under-21s. However, he has made a stunning comeback and now plays a crucial role in one of the top club midfields globally. Zaïre-Emery aims for a more significant position with Les Bleus, potentially addressing Deschamps’s right-back concerns, as evidenced by his performance against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Unsung Hero
Dayot Upamecano has enhanced his game with added consistency and poise over the past year. While William Saliba has garnered praise for his performances at Arsenal and is becoming a key figure for France, Upamecano’s contributions are vital to the national team’s success. The 27-year-old Bayern Munich center-back, now in his prime, started all World Cup qualifiers except for a non-critical match against Azerbaijan and has kept Ibrahima Konaté on the periphery of the squad.
Probable Starting XI
What to Expect from Fans at Games
Many French fans face financial barriers, yet around 1,000 supporters are anticipated at each match, with approximately 650 members of the Irrésistibles Francais (IF), Les Bleus’ largest organized fan group, expected to attend the opening match against Senegal. This group is known for energizing the crowd, albeit their chants can be somewhat simplistic. Expect to hear “Qui ne saute pas n’est pas Français” (“Those who don’t jump are not French”), “[She] treats him extremely badly,” (“neither elegant nor up to standard” often accompanied by synchronized jumping), and La Marseillaise, the national anthem, frequently echoing through the stadiums.
Relationship with the US/Trump
The dynamic between Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron was initially strong, following a four-month gap between their respective elections in 2017. However, this relationship has recently deteriorated, particularly over differences regarding the war in Ukraine and, more recently, the conflict in Iran. Trump has criticized France for hesitance in backing the US in Iran, making the situation personal by targeting Macron’s wife, Brigitte. He remarked, “[She] treats him extremely badly,” referencing a video from last year where Brigitte seemingly shoved Emmanuel. In response, Macron stated that Trump’s remarks were “neither elegant nor up to standard.”
- World Cup 2026: Guardian Experts’ Network
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