France enters the 2026 World Cup carrying huge expectations after reaching the final in two of the last three editions and building one of the most talented squads in international soccer. Under Didier Deschamps, who will step down after the tournament, Les Bleus remain among the strongest contenders for the title thanks to a mix of established stars, emerging talent, and tactical stability. Their preparations ended with a 3-1 friendly win over Northern Ireland, a result that added confidence before a difficult Group I campaign against Senegal, Iraq, and Norway.
Kylian Mbappe continues to lead the team as captain and remains the central figure of the French attack. He is joined by Ousmane Dembele, who arrives in exceptional form after another standout season, and Michael Olise, whose creativity gives France additional attacking variety. The squad’s depth is one of its biggest strengths, with elite options available in nearly every position. That balance has helped France maintain its status as one of the favorites to win the World Cup.
Deschamps has also refined his tactical approach following criticism after Euro 2024. France have increasingly used a more fluid 4-2-3-1 system, designed to give creative players greater freedom in advanced areas while preserving defensive organization. The change has strengthened the team’s attacking rhythm without sacrificing the discipline that has long defined Deschamps’ tenure.
Defensively, France have remained highly reliable. During qualifying, they conceded only four goals, underscoring the blend of attacking quality and structure that has made them so difficult to beat. That balance could prove crucial in a tournament where small margins often determine success.
Despite the strong form and deep roster, one familiar topic has resurfaced ahead of the World Cup: the absence of Raphael Varane. The former France defender stepped away from international soccer in February 2023, shortly after the team’s defeat to Argentina in the 2022 World Cup final. At the time, Varane said the physical and mental demands of the game had influenced his decision. By then, he had already earned 93 caps, won the 2018 World Cup, and become one of the most important defenders in French history.
Varane continued at club level before signing for Como in 2024, hoping for a fresh start in Italy. However, a knee injury suffered just minutes into his debut changed his plans. He retired from professional soccer in September 2024 at the age of 31 and later moved into a non-playing role at Como.
His absence marks the end of an era for France. For more than a decade, Varane was a cornerstone of the national team alongside players such as Hugo Lloris, Antoine Griezmann, and Paul Pogba. His leadership, calmness, and defensive intelligence were central to France’s 2018 World Cup triumph and their run to the 2022 final. Even though his career ended earlier than expected, Varane leaves behind a remarkable legacy built on World Cup success, Champions League titles with Real Madrid, and a decorated career at the highest level.
