France's World Cup campaign led by Didier Deschamps

Didier Deschamps, the only manager alongside Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer to win the World Cup both as a player and a coach, aims to become a record‑holder by guiding France to a third consecutive final and a second title as a manager. The French team, ranked among the favourites for the 2026 tournament in North America, faces a demanding group that includes Senegal and Norway.

Former French star Franck Leboeuf warned that winger Ousmane Dembélé may be hindered by the dominance of Kylian Mbappé, recalling a "complex of inferiority" that began when both played together at Paris Saint‑Germain. Leboeuf highlighted the need for mental resilience to avoid a repeat of the 2002 early‑exit. Despite internal doubts, France retains a strong squad featuring Mbappé, Dembele, Michael Olise and other talents, with Deschamps yet to decide his future after 25 years with the national side.