Mbappe and Dembele Star in France’s 2026 World Cup Squad Dakar, Senegal – The French national football team is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup with a formidable squad, led by the attacking talents of Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele. Coach Didier Deschamps announced the 26-man squad for the tournament, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Mbappe, the Real Madrid forward, is expected to captain the team despite recent injuries.
The 27-year-old has scored 56 goals for France, just two shy of surpassing Olivier Giroud as the leading men’s goalscorer for the national team. His inclusion in the squad, alongside Dembele, reflects France’s offensive prowess. Dembele, the Paris Saint-Germain star who won the Ballon d’Or last season, has yet to score at a World Cup but is poised to make a significant impact.
The attacking quartet also includes Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise and Dembele’s PSG teammate Desire Doue. Deschamps has selected a blend of experience and youthful talent for the squad, with several players part of the 2018 World Cup-winning team.
The BBC highlighted the absence of players like Eduardo Camavinga and Randal Kolo Muani, noting Deschamps’surprise calls. Goalkeeper Robin Risser, who has had a breakthrough season with Lens, joins Mike Maignan and Brice Samba as the third goalkeeper. This inclusion signifies the faith in emerging talent.
The French team finished first in UEFA Group D during their qualifying campaign, securing their spot in the draw.
The squad is now ready to build on their recent success and aim for a third World Cup title. Premier League-based players Lucas Hernandez, N’Golo Kante, and William Saliba strengthen the squad, joining Mbappe, Dembele, and the other survivors from France’s 2018 World Cup-winning group.
As the team prepares for the tournament, the focus will be on Mbappe and Dembele, who are expected to lead the attack and help France reach the pinnacle of international football once again.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
