Deschamps in the news as France gears up for 2026 qualifiers; ex-captain and France coach since 2012, led them to 2018 World Cup glory.
France has assembled a deep, attack-heavy squad for what will be Didier Deschamps’s final tournament, with Michael Olise pressing for a starting role after a hat-trick in a warm-up. Ivory Coast has beaten Ecuador, while Qatar and Switzerland have drawn and other nations have used friendlies to finalise squads and tactics ahead of group matches beginning this week.
Morocco has confirmed its 26-man squad for the World Cup under new coach Mohamed Ouahbi. The squad leans on European-born players, including five with links to Spain, and features Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, whose eligibility was approved by FIFA this year. The Atlas Lions open in New Jersey on June 13 vs. Brazil, then face Scotland and Haiti in Group C.
A roundup of how African, Arab and European teams are finalising squads and tactics for the 2026 World Cup in North America. Managers reshuffle, injuries and tactical changes shape expectations as teams prepare to the tournament. The Guardian and other outlets report on Egypt, DR Congo, Jordan, Tunisia, and more as they approach their first appearances or campaigns.
France and Senegal prepare for a high-stakes World Cup clash in New Jersey. Deschamps is managing Mbappé’s global profile while aiming to shield the team from distractions; Senegal brings defensive strength and pace to challenge the defending champions.