Manu Koné poised for starting role as France face Iraq at World Cup

Midfielder Manu Koné, 25, of AS Roma has been named in France’s starting eleven for their World Cup 2026 group‑stage match against Iraq. Coach Thierry Henry had earmarked the player early in his project, and current manager Didier Deschamps sees him as a key option after a period of injury‑related setbacks that limited his minutes in pre‑tournament friendlies.

Koné, who rose through Toulouse’s academy, overcame a fractured tibia at 15, later played for Borussia Mönchengladbach before joining Roma in January 2023. He has earned dozens of caps for France, praised for his ball‑recovery, passing accuracy and positional awareness. The player has spoken of feeling previously undervalued but now feels confident ahead of the tournament.

In the club market, Roma are reportedly fielding offers for Koné. Atletico Madrid has tabled a €45 million bid, while Premier League sides – notably Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham – have expressed interest, though no formal offers have been confirmed. The Italian club may consider a sale if it meets its financial targets before the summer transfer window closes.