Mbappé to Captain France at 2026 World Cup

Kylian Mbappé has been named to lead the French national team for the 2026 World Cup, as announced by coach Didier Deschamps on Thursday. The 26-man squad will compete in the tournament taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Despite suffering a thigh injury last month that caused him to miss key matches in Real Madrid's La Liga campaign, the 27-year-old forward is set to travel to North America. The squad includes notable players such as Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembélé, Bayern Munich's Michael Olise, and Rayan Cherki, who will make his World Cup debut at 22 years old.

Veteran midfielder N'Golo Kant, who was part of the 2018 World Cup-winning team, will also feature alongside other experienced players. The goalkeeping lineup includes Mike Maignan from AC Milan and Brice Samba from Rennes, while defenders include Luca Hernández and William Saliba.

The squad reflects a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents.