Key Takeaways:
- Didier Deschamps has named a 24-man squad for France’s final World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine on 13 November and Azerbaijan on 16 November
- N’Golo Kante and Randal Kolo Muani both return to the national team selection
- Bradley Barcola and Rayan Cherki have been included following recent injury absences, while Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue remain unavailable
Squad Announcement and Major Inclusions
France manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed a 24-player list for the team’s upcoming concluding World Cup qualifiers, as the squad prepares to face Ukraine on 13 November followed by Azerbaijan on 16 November. One of the major headlines from the announcement is the return of 2018 World Cup winner N’Golo Kante, whose selection represents a significant surprise for many observers. Tottenham’s attacking talent Randal Kolo Muani is another standout inclusion as Les Bleus look to secure qualification.
🇫🇷 24 Bleus appelés et 2 matchs pour valider notre ticket à la Coupe du Monde 2026 🌎
📋 Voici la liste de Didier Deschamps pour le dernier rassemblement de l’année ! 💪 pic.twitter.com/606Rlq09WY
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) November 6, 2025
Changes to Squad: Returns and Omissions
Bradley Barcola and Rayan Cherki are recalled to the team after missing out on recent matches due to injury concerns. In contrast, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue are currently sidelined and have not been included in Deschamps’ latest selection. Up front, Les Bleus will count on the attacking options of Christopher Nkunku, Hugo Ekitike, and Kolo Muani. The midfield is bolstered by Warren Zaire-Emery and Eduardo Camavinga, while notable absentees from this area include Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot.
Notable Players Missing Out
The depth of French talent is reflected in several high-profile omissions from this squad. Marcus Thuram, Youssouf Fofana, Benjamin Pavard, Florian Thauvin, Boubacar Kamara, and Corentin Tolisso have all not been selected for these crucial fixtures.
