2026 World Cup: here is France's starting XI

France: Didier Deschamps' preferred lineup for the World Cup

World Cup 2026 Today at 10:00

Didier Deschamps appears to have made his final decisions just days before the start of the 2026 World Cup. A clear starting XI is now emerging for Les Bleus as they gear up for the competition.

With just a few days to go before their World Cup campaign kicks off, the French national team seems to have found its rhythm. Indeed, despite suffering a defeat against Ivory Coast in a warm-up match, Deschamps now seems to have a solid idea of his starting lineup.

According to information from Le Parisien, the French coach is set to opt for a decidedly attacking formation for this global showdown. This is no insignificant choice. After Euro 2024, where the Tricolores were often criticized for a lack of creativity, the French staff seem determined to show more ambition in attack.

However, this starting eleven will need to deliver quickly, as France will kick off their World Cup campaign in a group featuring Senegal, Iraq, and Norway. Here is the lineup currently taking shape:

Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan

Defenders: Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Théo Hernandez

Midfielders: Aurélien Tchouaméni, Adrien Rabiot, Michael Olise

Forwards: Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, Désiré Doué