Didier Deschamps' choices for the World Cup
The French team is emerging for the World Cup. The selection is structured around a frame of 14 players, faithful to the logic of Deschamps during the 2018 World Cups and 2022. Despite the Saliba package, the Dembélé injury and the agitated summer of Rabiot, this base remains solid and constitutes the nucleus around hard for the coach when making his list. 14 players are already almost assured of being part of the group for the 2026 World Cup, we find: Maignan – Koundé, Saliba (Konaté), Upamecano, Digne – Koné (Rabiot), Tchouameni – Dembélé (Gifted), Olise, Barcola – Mbappé. The 4-2-3-1, centered on Mbappé and Olise, illustrates the consistency sought by Deschamps in the construction phase. Theo Hernandez, despite his qualities, is not yet considered an essential holder.
Michael Courted Olise
In Abendzeitungwe are talking about a Michael olise more and more under the spotlight. At 23, he shines with Bayern and the French team, despite some notable errors, such as his failed pass against Iceland. Under the direction of Didier Deschamps, he energizes the tricolor attack with creativity and efficiency. Since his transfer of Crystal Palace, Olise has accumulated 20 goals and 23 assists in 55 games last season and starts strong this year (4 games, 4 goals). His talent already attracts the interest of large European clubs, including Real Madrid and Liverpool, with Kylian Mbappé pushing for a transfer. Bayern, which keeps it under contract until 2029, could nevertheless consider an exit clause for the summer of 2026.
The farewell of a legend
It's time to say goodbye to a monument. Steve Mandanda, an emblematic OM goalkeeper and former French international, ends his career at 40 after twenty years at the highest level. Free since July 1 at the end of his contract with Rennes, he explained to The team To have thought at length before saying no to club proposals like Le Havre, Lorient or Brest. Matches record holder with OM (613), Mandanda thus ends a career marked by regularity and attachment to the Marseille club. He became the fourth 2018 world champion to hang up after Matuidi, Rami and Varane. His retirement symbolizes the end of an era for French football.
