Few countries have a better blend of established pedigrees and emerging talent heading into major tournaments than France. Didier Deschamps has spent more than a decade building a team capable of competing on multiple fronts, and his depth is one of the main reasons France continues to be regarded as one of the most popular teams in North America.
Mike Maignan provides goal security, while William Saliba, Jules Kounde and Dayot Upamecano form the backbone of a defense packed with elite-level experience. In midfield, Aureliano Tsouameni continues to develop into one of the most influential players in European football, bolstered by the long-term presence of N’Golo Kante.
The attack options remain particularly daunting. Kylian Mbappe is the headliner, but he is supported by Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Desire Douai and Ryan Cherki, ensuring France have a range of names who can change the game in different ways.
Their first win against Senegal was not flawless, but it reinforced a familiar theme for Deschamps’ side. Even if France aren’t at their absolute peak, they still have the ability to control games through individual brilliance and collective prowess.
