Didier Deschamps has unveiled his final 26-man France squad for the 2026 World Cup, and it's a lineup that brings plenty of Serie A flavor to the tournament. The French coach has selected four players currently plying their trade in Italy's top flight, highlighting the growing influence of Italian football on the international stage.
Leading the Serie A contingent is AC Milan's dynamic duo: goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Adrien Rabiot. Both have been instrumental for the Rossoneri this season, and their inclusion adds a blend of experience and reliability to Les Bleus' spine. Maignan, known for his lightning reflexes and commanding presence, will be a key figure between the posts, while Rabiot's box-to-box energy offers versatility in the midfield.
Joining them is Roma's midfield powerhouse Manu Koné, who has made an impressive surge in the national team pecking order. The 25-year-old, celebrating his birthday this weekend, has earned his spot with standout performances in Serie A, proving he can hold his own against the world's best. His selection is a testament to his rapid development in the Italian capital.
Up front, Inter Milan's Marcus Thuram brings a fresh Scudetto and Coppa Italia double to the squad. The striker has been a force for the Nerazzurri, using his pace and physicality to terrorize defenses. However, there's a family twist: his younger brother, Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram, has been left at home, adding a touch of drama to the selection.
Deschamps has also made some bold calls, leaving out notable names like Eduardo Camavinga, Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana, and former Juventus striker Randal Kolo Muani. Instead, he's turned to Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta, who famously failed a medical for a Milan move in January but has since rediscovered his form in the Premier League.
With the tournament kicking off next month across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, France's squad balances star power with fresh faces. The Serie A quartet will be eager to prove their worth on the world's biggest stage, and for fans of Italian football, it's a chance to cheer on familiar heroes in a new arena.