Leading the squad are captain Kylian Mbappe and reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, as France prepares for another major tournament under Deschamps, who is expected to step down after the competition.
The squad announcement signals France’s intent to challenge once again for global football’s biggest prize after reaching the last two World Cup finals.
Mbappe Returns as France’s Main Man
Despite concerns surrounding a recent thigh injury, Mbappe is widely expected to captain the French side in the tournament.
The Real Madrid superstar already has 56 international goals to his name, placing him second on France’s all-time scoring list behind only Olivier Giroud.
Mbappe remains the focal point of France’s attack and enters the tournament carrying the weight of expectations once again after another prolific season at club level.
Dembele Arrives in Career-Best Form
Alongside Mbappe, Dembele enters the World Cup in arguably the best form of his career.
The Paris Saint-Germain winger enjoyed a sensational campaign, scoring 35 goals and helping PSG secure the UEFA Champions League title.
His performances also earned him the prestigious Ballon d’Or, making him only the second French player this century to win the award.
Yet despite his club success, Dembele still has unfinished business on the international stage, having failed to score in previous World Cup appearances.
France’s New Generation Takes Centre Stage
Deschamps’ squad also highlights the next wave of French talent emerging onto the global stage.
Young attackers Michael Olise and Desire Doue add creativity, pace and flair to an already explosive frontline.
There is also growing excitement around Rayan Cherki, the highly-rated Manchester City playmaker who earned a place in the squad after an impressive breakthrough campaign.
At the back, William Saliba of Arsenal continues to cement his reputation as one of Europe’s elite defenders.
In total, seven Premier League-based players were included in the final selection.
Familiar Faces from 2018 Triumph Remain
Only four members of France’s victorious 2018 World Cup squad remain part of the current setup: Mbappe, Dembele, Lucas Hernandez and N'Golo Kante.
Kante’s inclusion is particularly notable after the veteran midfielder revived his international career with strong performances abroad.
Deschamps appears keen to balance youthful energy with tournament experience as he seeks one final major trophy before ending his long tenure.
Surprise Omissions Raise Eyebrows
As expected with any major tournament squad, several notable absentees have sparked debate.
Eduardo Camavinga was left out after an injury-hit season at Real Madrid, while Randal Kolo Muani — who featured prominently in the 2022 World Cup — also failed to make the cut.
Goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier was another surprise omission despite strong domestic performances.
Meanwhile, Hugo Ekitike was unavailable after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in April.
Deschamps defended his decisions, insisting squad harmony and tactical balance were more important than simply selecting the biggest names.
“It’s a squad. Not necessarily the 26 best players. It’s about balance and how the team comes together,” Deschamps told TF1.
Speaking specifically about Camavinga, the France coach acknowledged the midfielder’s disappointment.
“I can imagine how disappointed he must be. He’s coming off a tough season where he didn’t play as much and suffered injuries. But I’ve got decisions to make and a squad to put together.”
France Begin Campaign Against Senegal
France will open their World Cup campaign against Senegal national football team in New Jersey on June 16 before facing Iraq national football team and Norway national football team in their remaining Group I fixtures.
With one of the deepest squads in world football, France once again heads into the tournament among the favourites.
The combination of Mbappe’s leadership, Dembele’s red-hot form and a new generation of attacking talent gives Deschamps perhaps his most balanced squad yet — and potentially one final chance to deliver another World Cup triumph for France.
France World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Robin Risser (Lens), Brice Samba (Rennes)
Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Lucas Hernandez (Paris St-Germain), Theo Hernandez (Al Hilal), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamenaco (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: N'Golo Kante (Fenerbache), Manu Kone (Roma), Adrien Rabiot (AC Milan), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris St-Germain)
Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche (Monaco), Bradley Barcola (Paris St-Germain), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Ousmane Dembele (Paris St-Germain), Desire Doue (Paris St-Germain), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Jean-Phillipe Mateta (Crystal Palace), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)