Two-time world champions and runners-up in the last edition, France have officially announced their 26-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup on Thursday. As Didier Deschamps prepares for what is expected to be his final tournament at the helm, the squad list comes with a mix of surprise inclusions and notable omissions that have sparked plenty of discussion among fans.
The biggest headline? Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has been left out. After a challenging campaign in Spain, the 23-year-old has lost his spot in the national team setup and will miss a second consecutive World Cup—a tough blow for a player once seen as a key part of France's future midfield.
Also missing from the list is forward Randal Kolo Muani, who featured for France at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but failed to secure a place this time around. The Tottenham man's absence opens the door for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has been called up to add fresh firepower to the attack.
In goal, Deschamps has turned to a new face. Ligue 1's best goalkeeper award winner, Robin Risser, has been selected ahead of Lucas Chevalier for his first-ever World Cup appearance—a sign that the coach is looking to inject youthful energy into the squad.
France will kick off their World Cup campaign on June 16 against Senegal, followed by matches against Iraq and Norway in Group I. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging talent, Les Bleus will be aiming to go one step further than their runner-up finish in the last edition.
