This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media from the 48 nations that qualified. In the lead-up to the tournament starting on June 11, previews are being provided from three countries each day.
Team Strategy
Antoine Griezmann succinctly described France’s style under coach Didier Deschamps.
“It is a pain to watch, but it makes you win,”
This assessment came during Euro 2024, where Les Bleus reached the semi-finals. However, scoring became a challenge, with Randal Kolo Muani being the only player to score from open play in the match against Spain, while the other goals came from penalties and own goals.
This conservative approach defined France’s recent performance, as Deschamps seemed to be testing the limits of his tactics. In March, during a tour of the United States, his team scored five goals across matches against Brazil and Colombia, suggesting a potential shift. Deschamps stated his desire for the squad to become “less predictable and readable” raising the question of whether they would sacrifice defensive strength for a more dynamic attack.
The defense has been a solid foundation for France, with only four European teams conceding fewer goals during qualifying. However, the squad boasts a wealth of attacking talent, including captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise. Defender Lucas Hernandez claims they possess “At times, we’ve been a bit on the limit,” The challenge for Deschamps lies in effectively utilizing this talent, especially following Olivier Giroud’s retirement from international play in 2024.
Coaching Profile
Didier Deschamps has set the benchmark for international coaching. His pragmatic and conservative style has influenced many, including Gareth Southgate during his tenure with England. Despite leading France to consecutive World Cup finals and a Euros final over twelve years, Deschamps has often faced criticism. Responding to detractors, he quipped, “the best attack in the world” His successful track record supports his approach, and with plans to step down after this summer, he is unlikely to alter his methods now. Deschamps has previously enjoyed success with clubs like Monaco and Marseille and is open to returning to club management.
Star Player
Kylian Mbappé is the standout player in a talented roster, having consistently been the focal point since leading France to World Cup victory in 2018. Transitioning from a dynamic winger to a prolific striker, Mbappé now plays as a No. 9, with the team’s attacking strategy built around him. He is poised to surpass Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer.
Player to Watch
Warren Zaïre-Emery, just 20, has already faced significant challenges in his fledgling career. He made headlines by scoring on his France debut at 17 but faced setbacks due to injuries and a dip in form that saw him relegated to the France Under-21s. However, he has made a remarkable comeback, now playing a crucial role in what is considered one of the best club midfields globally. Zaïre-Emery seeks a more significant role with Les Bleus and has shown versatility, even performing well in a right-back position during the Champions League against Bayern Munich.
Unsung Hero
Dayot Upamecano has demonstrated growth in consistency and composure over the past year. While William Saliba has received acclaim for his performances at Arsenal and is rising in prominence for France, Upamecano plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the national team. The Bayern Munich centre-back, now 27 and in his prime, started every World Cup qualifier except for a non-essential match against Azerbaijan, keeping Ibrahima Konaté on the sidelines.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
For many, ticket prices have posed a barrier, yet up to 1,000 French supporters are anticipated at each match, with approximately 650 members from the Irrésistibles Francais (IF), the biggest organized fan group of Les Bleus, expected to attend the opening match against Senegal. The IF are known for creating an electric atmosphere, although their chants may be simplistic. Expect to hear “Watch something else, then,” (“Qui ne saute pas n’est pas Français”), “Those who don’t jump are not French” (“[She] treats him extremely badly,” often accompanied by mass jumping), and the national anthem, La Marseillaise, at stadiums.
Political Context
There was a four-month gap between Donald Trump’s election and Emmanuel Macron’s ascent to the French presidency in 2017, during which the two leaders initially enjoyed a strong rapport. However, this relationship has soured recently due to disagreements over the war in Ukraine and, more recently, the conflict in Iran. Trump has criticized France for its hesitance to support the US in Iran, and his remarks turned personal when he targeted Macron’s wife, Brigitte. “neither elegant nor up to standard” Trump remarked, referencing a video from last year where Brigitte appeared to push Emmanuel. Macron responded, stating that Trump’s comments were “neither elegant nor up to standard.”
- World Cup 2026: Guardian Experts’ Network
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