This article is part of a collaborative effort by top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified for the 2026 World Cup. In anticipation of the tournament starting on June 11, previews are being published daily from three countries.
The Strategy Ahead
Antoine Griezmann succinctly described the essence of France’s playing style under Didier Deschamps: “It is a pain to watch, but it makes you win.” This sentiment reflects the team’s performance during Euro 2024, where they advanced to the semi-finals but struggled offensively. In their loss to Spain, Randal Kolo Muani was the sole player to score from open play, with the remaining goals coming via penalties or own goals.
This conservative approach has characterized France’s play under Deschamps, leading to questions about the team’s adaptability. However, during their March tour in the United States, the team showcased a more dynamic style, netting five goals in two matches against Brazil and Colombia. Deschamps expressed his desire for a team that is “less predictable and readable,” raising concerns about whether this newfound attacking edge would compromise their defensive strength. He acknowledged, “At times, we’ve been a bit on the limit.”
The backbone of the team remains its defense, which was robust during the qualifiers, with only four European teams conceding fewer goals than Les Bleus. Yet, the offensive talent now at Deschamps’s disposal is impressive, featuring captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and rising star Michael Olise.
Lucas Hernandez boldly claims that France boasts “the best attack in the world.” While the individual talents are undeniable, the challenge lies in seamlessly integrating these players into a cohesive unit. The recent retirement of Olivier Giroud from international duty has further complicated this process. The March friendlies hinted at a balanced approach, but whether this more aggressive strategy will be implemented remains uncertain.
The Coaching Maestro
Didier Deschamps has set a benchmark in international coaching standards, known for his pragmatic and conservative tactics. His methods have inspired many, including Gareth Southgate of England. Despite leading France to consecutive World Cup finals and a Euro final over his 12-year reign, Deschamps’s style often faces criticism. In response to detractors, he quipped, “Watch something else, then.” His success validates his approach, and with plans to depart from Les Bleus this summer, he is unlikely to alter his strategy now. Previously successful with clubs like Monaco and Marseille, Deschamps is contemplating a return to club management.
Star Player Spotlight
Kylian Mbappé stands out as the centerpiece of this talented roster, having been the driving force behind France’s 2018 World Cup triumph. He has transitioned from a dazzling winger to a formidable striker, now playing as a No 9. With the national team’s offense built around him, Mbappé is on the cusp of surpassing Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer.
Emerging Talent
Warren Zaïre-Emery, at just 20 years of age, has already faced significant challenges and triumphs. He marked his France debut with a goal at 17 and was heralded as a prodigy. However, injuries and a subsequent dip in form led to his demotion within the PSG ranks and a stint with the Under-21 team. Now revitalized, he plays a crucial role in one of the world’s premier club midfields and is looking for a more significant position with Les Bleus, potentially solving Deschamps’s right-back dilemma, as demonstrated in his Champions League performance against Bayern Munich.
The Unsung Contributor
Dayot Upamecano has developed into a reliable and composed defender in the past year. While much attention goes to William Saliba for his performances at Arsenal, Upamecano’s contributions to the national squad are invaluable. The 27-year-old Bayern Munich center-back has started every World Cup qualifier except for a non-essential match against Azerbaijan, keeping Ibrahima Konaté on the outskirts of the team.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations
High ticket prices have deterred many French fans from attending matches. Nonetheless, around 1,000 supporters are anticipated at each game, with approximately 650 members of the Irrésistibles Francais (IF), Les Bleus’ largest organized fan group, expected to cheer them on during the opening match against Senegal. The IF is known for creating an electric atmosphere, often chanting simple, yet spirited phrases like “Allez Les Bleus” (“Go the Blues”), “Qui ne saute pas n’est pas Français” (“Those who don’t jump are not French,” accompanied by mass jumping), and singing La Marseillaise, the national anthem, throughout the games.
US and France: A Complex Relationship
The relationship between Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron initially flourished following their respective elections in 2017. However, recent tensions have emerged, particularly concerning differing views on the wars in Ukraine and Iran. Trump has criticized France’s hesitance to back the US regarding Iran, making personal remarks about Macron’s wife, Brigitte. He stated, “[She] treats him extremely badly,” alluding to a past incident where Brigitte appeared to push Emmanuel in a video. Macron retorted that Trump’s comments were “neither elegant nor up to standard.”
