This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 nations participating. Previews are being published daily leading up to the tournament, commencing on June 11.
Strategic Overview
Antoine Griezmann succinctly summed up France’s playing style under Didier Deschamps, saying, “It is a pain to watch, but it makes you win,” This was during Euro 2024, where France reached the semi-finals but struggled offensively. In fact, Randal Kolo Muani emerged as the only player to score during open play in their matches, with the rest of their goals coming from penalties or own goals.
This conservative playstyle characterized France’s approach under Deschamps. Recent matches, however, especially during their U.S. tour in March, saw a more liberated offensive strategy, with the team netting five goals in two games against Brazil and Colombia. Deschamps expressed a desire for his team to be “less predictable and readable” raising questions about whether their solid defense might be compromised for a more dynamic attack. He remarked, “At times, we’ve been a bit on the limit,”
The backbone of the team remains its defense, as only four European nations conceded fewer goals than France during qualifiers. Nonetheless, an impressive array of attacking talent is now at Deschamps’s disposal, including captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise.
Defender Lucas Hernandez confidently stated that France boasts “the best attack in the world” While the individual talents are undeniable, the challenge lies in integrating them into a cohesive unit, especially after Olivier Giroud’s retirement from international play in 2024. The balance appeared to be struck during their March friendlies, but whether they will adopt a more open style moving forward remains uncertain.
Coaching Philosophy
Didier Deschamps has set the benchmark for international coaching. His pragmatic and conservative methods have inspired emulation, particularly from Gareth Southgate during his tenure with England. Despite leading France to consecutive World Cup finals and a Euro final within his 12-year reign, he has faced criticism for his approach. In response to detractors, he quipped, “Watch something else, then,” His achievements validate his philosophy, and with plans to depart from Les Bleus this summer, he shows no signs of altering his strategy. Previously, Deschamps found success with both Monaco and Marseille, and he may consider a return to club management.
Key Player
Kylian Mbappé stands out as the leader of a star-studded lineup, solidifying his role since he propelled France to World Cup victory in 2018. Transitioning from an electrifying winger to a formidable striker, France’s offensive strategy now revolves around him. With Mbappé poised to surpass Giroud as the nation’s all-time leading scorer, his centrality to the team is more pronounced than ever.
Player to Watch
At just 20 years old, Warren Zaïre-Emery has already navigated a rollercoaster of experiences. He marked his France debut with a goal at 17, quickly earning the label of a prodigy. However, injuries and a decline in form saw him relegated to the France Under-21s while also losing prominence at PSG. Recently, he has made a strong comeback and is now a vital component of one of the top club midfields globally. He could even provide a solution to Deschamps’s right-back conundrum, as shown in his Champions League performance against Bayern Munich.
Unsung Contributor
Dayot Upamecano has demonstrated significant growth in consistency and composure over the past year. While William Saliba garners attention for his standout performances with Arsenal and is also rising in prominence for France, Upamecano has been a stabilizing force for the national team. The Bayern Munich defender, now 27 and in his prime, featured in all World Cup qualifiers except for a non-essential match against Azerbaijan, keeping Ibrahima Konaté out of the regular squad.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Engagement Expectations
Ticket prices have deterred many French fans, yet around 1,000 supporters are expected at each match. Approximately 650 members of Irrésistibles Francais (IF), the largest organized fan group of Les Bleus, are anticipated to attend the opening match against Senegal. Known for their enthusiastic presence, the IF will lead the chants, which may include the simple yet powerful “Qui ne saute pas n’est pas Français” (“Those who don’t jump are not French”) and “[She] treats him extremely badly,” (“neither elegant nor up to standard” accompanied by mass jumping), alongside the national anthem, La Marseillaise.
Political Context with the US
There was a notable relationship between Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron that blossomed soon after their respective elections in 2017. However, that rapport has soured recently, particularly due to differing views on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran. Trump criticized France for its hesitance to align with U.S. interests regarding Iran, even making personal remarks about Macron’s wife, Brigitte. Trump stated, “[She] treats him extremely badly,” referencing a video where Brigitte appeared to push Emmanuel’s face. In turn, Macron remarked that Trump’s comments were “neither elegant nor up to standard.”
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