Didier Deschamps has named his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Kylian Mbappe set to lead the charge for France. The announcement, made Thursday, marks Deschamps' seventh and final major tournament squad before he steps down after the summer spectacle.

Mbappe, who captained France to the 2018 World Cup title under Deschamps, is included despite a recent thigh injury that sidelined him for key Real Madrid matches in La Liga. The 27-year-old forward will headline a formidable attack that also features Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele, PSG's Desire Doue, and Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise.

Deschamps kept his selections tight-lipped, with few surprises in the roster. "It's a squad, not necessarily the 26 best players. It's about balance and how the team comes together," he told French TV channel TF1, emphasizing the importance of cohesion over individual star power.

The squad blends youth and experience. At 22, Manchester City's playmaker has impressed in his debut Premier League season, while Arsenal's William Saliba adds defensive steel. Lucas Hernandez and N'Golo Kante, alongside Mbappe and Dembele, are the only holdovers from the 2018 World Cup-winning team. Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser is the sole uncapped player.

Notable omissions include Real Madrid's Eduardo Camavinga and PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier. "He's coming off a tough season where he didn't play as much and suffered injuries," Deschamps said of Camavinga, acknowledging the midfielder's disappointment. Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike is also absent after a season-ending Achilles injury in April.

As Deschamps prepares for his final tournament at the helm, the focus is clear: "The World Cup is the most important thing." With a blend of proven champions and rising talent, France aims to reclaim global glory on North American soil.