‘We’ve seen with other France captains in the past that wearing the armband brought out the best in them. Kylian Mbappe understands that he has to do the same’ Frank Leboeuf on Mbappe’s leadership qualities

Kylian Mbappe of France celebrates scoring his team's first goal from the penalty spot during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between France and Ukraine at Parc des Princes on November 13.

France kick off their World Cup campaign on Tuesday looking to make history by reaching a third consecutive final, after having established themselves as one of the era’s best sides under Didier Deschamps.

At the heart of these ambitions is skipper Kylian Mbappe, who at the age of 27, should now be entering his prime years.