France are looking to become the firt team to defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962
(Picture: Getty Images)Defending champions France are plagued by injuries with the likes of Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante out, and have just endured a Nations League campaign not much better than England’s.
They remain, however, arguably the most talented set of players at the tournament with a blend of proven winners and ridiculous young talent.
Here’s everything you need to know about France…
Coach: Didier Deschamps. Now a decade in the job, looking to become only the second manager to win two World Cups.
Captain: Hugo Lloris. Tottenham’s goalkeeper turns 36 on Boxing Day and this could prove a farewell tournament.
Star player: Kylian Mbappe. All sorts of off-field distraction, but lethal on it for PSG this season.
One to watch: Eduardo Camavinga, Already a star for Real Madrid, he has all the ability to announce himself on the world stage.
Odds to win: 29/4
World ranking: 4th
Best thing about them: Evolution since 2018 has the likes of Edouard Camavinga, William Saliba and Aurelien Tchouameni competing to feature.
Worst thing about them: Could the curse of previous winners and group stage exits strike again?
Their prospects in three words: Blue, blue Christmas?
Fixtures (all times GMT)
November 22 vs Australia (7pm)
November 26 vs Denmark (4pm)
November 30 vs Tunisia (3pm)
Squad in full
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Hugo Lloris, Steve Mandanda
Defenders: Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, Benjamin Pavard, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Raphael Varane
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, Matteo Guendouzi, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jordan Veretout
Forwards: Karim Benzema, Kingsley Coman, Ousmane Dembele, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe, Randal Kolo Muani
