France Welcomes Back Cherki, Kolo Muani, and Kanté for Crucial World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
France's national team recalls Cherki, Kolo Muani, and Kanté for decisive 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Azerbaijan, coping with key injuries and absences.
- • Didier Deschamps announced the 24-player French squad for World Cup qualifying matches against Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
- • Rayan Cherki and Randal Kolo Muani return to the team, having previously missed recent call-ups due to injury and form issues.
- • Ngolo Kanté is recalled amid injuries and suspensions, including Aurélien Tchouaméni’s absence.
- • Key players Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, and Benjamin Pavard are unavailable for selection.
Key details
The France national football team manager Didier Deschamps announced the squad for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying matches, marking the return of key players Rayan Cherki, Randal Kolo Muani, and Ngolo Kanté. These qualifiers will see France face Ukraine on November 13 at Parc des Princes and Azerbaijan on November 16 if needed.
Cherki, 22, who impressed with a stunning goal in the Nations League Final Four against Spain and previously missed call-ups due to a thigh injury, is back in form after scoring for Manchester City in the Champions League. Kolo Muani, 26, has struggled for game time at Tottenham but has been recalled despite limited recent play. Veteran midfielder Kanté, 34, returns amid squad injuries and suspensions, including Aurélien Tchouaméni’s injury and suspension of other players.
Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué remain unavailable due to injuries, while Benjamin Pavard is absent from the squad. The list includes 24 players covering goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with notable young talent Warren Zaïre-Emery included after recovering form at PSG.
The stakes are high, as France must secure a win against Ukraine to ensure qualification for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026. Deschamps’ squad reflects adjustments made for injuries and suspensions, with experienced and emerging talents aiming to secure France’s spot in the tournament.