Didier Deschamps has officially unveiled the 25-man France squad for Euro 2024, and the biggest headline is undoubtedly the return of N’Golo Kante. The world champion midfielder, who currently plays for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, is back in the national team setup after last representing France in June 2022. This unexpected inclusion marks a significant boost for Les Bleus as they aim for European glory in Germany.
Deschamps addressed Kante’s surprise recall on French television, stating, “He played a full season, even if it wasn’t in a European league, in Saudi Arabia. He is fully fit again. With his experience, I am convinced that the French team will be stronger with N’Golo Kante.” Despite concerns about the level of competition in the Saudi League, Deschamps clearly values Kante’s vast experience and unique skillset, particularly his ball-winning ability and tireless engine in midfield.
Alt text: N’Golo Kante, the experienced midfielder, smiles confidently in his France national team jersey, signaling his return to the squad for Euro 2024.
Kante, a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, brings invaluable experience to a squad brimming with talent. His presence will be particularly beneficial for young stars like Warren Zaire-Emery and Bradley Barcola, both of whom earned their places after impressive seasons with Paris Saint-Germain. Zaire-Emery himself expressed his excitement, stating via video link, “Very happy to be on the list, it’s one of the best competitions to play with France and I’m very happy and proud to represent my country.” The young PSG midfielder also revealed he has been granted permission to postpone his final school exams to fully concentrate on Euro 2024, highlighting his commitment to the national team.
Alt text: Young talent Warren Zaire-Emery, in his Paris Saint-Germain kit, expresses joy about his inclusion in the France Euro 2024 squad, representing the next generation of French football.
Of course, no France squad announcement would be complete without the inclusion of superstar Kylian Mbappe. He will lead a formidable attack that also features Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, and Ousmane Dembele. The defensive line is anchored by Arsenal’s William Saliba, Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate, and Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano, showcasing the depth and quality across the French team.
France enters Euro 2024 as one of the tournament favorites, eager to add to their European Championship titles from 1984 and 2000. After a painful final defeat on home soil in 2016 and an early exit in Euro 2021, Les Bleus are determined to make a strong statement in Germany. Their Euro 2024 journey begins on June 17 against Austria, followed by crucial group stage matches against the Netherlands and Poland. With a blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young prospects, France’s Euro 2024 squad looks well-equipped to challenge for the coveted trophy.
France Euro 2024 Squad in Full:
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens)
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Marseille), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), William Saliba (Arsenal), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid), Benjamin Pavard (Bayern Munich), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: N’Golo Kante (Al-Ittihad), Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Adrien Rabiot (Juventus), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain), Youssouf Fofana (Monaco)
Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain), Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain), Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain), Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan), Randal Kolo Muani (Paris Saint-Germain), Olivier Giroud (AC Milan)
