Arsene Wenger Names France as 2026 World Cup Frontrunner

Arsene Wenger, former manager of Arsenal, has named France as the leading contender for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. France, known as "Les Bleus," has won the tournament twice, in 1998 and 2018, and reached the finals on two additional occasions in 2006 and 2022.

Wenger expressed confidence that his home country will triumph again, especially after their defeat to Argentina in the 2022 final. He highlighted the strength of the French team, noting their immense talent and the experience brought by coach Didier Deschamps.

Wenger remarked on the modern player's understanding of the importance of contributing defensively, even when in an attacking role. He also addressed the undue criticism faced by Kylian Mbappe this season at Real Madrid, emphasizing that he expects Mbappe to excel in the World Cup.

France is set to begin their campaign against Senegal on June 16, 2026, and is expected to secure a top position in their group, which also includes Norway and Iraq.