France head coach Didier Deschamps delivered a confident message on the eve of his team's friendly against Ivory Coast, declaring that star forward Kylian Mbappé is in scintillating form as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches. Speaking to reporters in Nantes, Deschamps dismissed any concerns about his captain's fitness, revealing that the Real Madrid talisman has been training at full intensity and is fully focused on national team duties.
"Kylian is in top form, both physically and mentally," Deschamps stated. "He is our captain, we speak often, and he communicates with his teammates. The club season is behind us; now it's all about the national team, and he is giving everything in training." The coach highlighted that Mbappé, now at his third World Cup, brings invaluable experience to a French side that finished as runners-up in 2022.
The 27-year-old Mbappé, who led Les Bleus to the final in Qatar four years ago, has emerged as the undisputed leader of a new generation. After a demanding campaign with Real Madrid, including a Champions League title, the forward has seamlessly transitioned into international mode. Deschamps' assurance will reassure French supporters who view Mbappé as the key to unlocking opposing defenses in the tournament.
In the immediate term, Deschamps plans to use the friendly against Ivory Coast to test his squad depth. With a 26-man roster to manage, the coach emphasized that the concept of a starting eleven has evolved. "I already have the lineup for our opening match in my head, but nowadays there are 13 or 14 starters," he explained. "I'll try to give playing time to as many players as possible tomorrow."
Ivory Coast, a fellow World Cup participant in Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador, provides a valuable test for a French team that will face a diverse set of challenges in the group stage. The match in Nantes serves as a final rehearsal before Les Bleus fly out for the competition, with Deschamps seeking tactical clarity and chemistry among his options.
France's World Cup journey begins on June 16 against Senegal in Group I. The African champions present a fast, physical challenge that will demand immediate sharpness. Four days later, on June 22, Deschamps' men take on Iraq, an opponent that may be less threatening on paper but cannot be underestimated. The group-phase finale arrives on June 26 against Norway, a matchup already generating significant buzz.
Deschamps acknowledged the caliber of the Norwegian side, which defeated Italy twice during qualification and stormed to the top of their group. "They had a magnificent qualifying campaign," he said. "They are among the best European teams, with excellent players. Offensively, they are clinical and score a lot of goals." The coach's words indirectly highlight the danger posed by Erling Haaland, Norway's record-breaking striker.
Norway's resurgence, fueled by Haaland's prolific form, has reshaped expectations for a nation that missed the 2022 tournament. Under coach Ståle Solbakken, they blend physicality with technical skill, and their direct approach has troubled even elite defenses. Deschamps' decision to praise them so openly signals that France's technical staff are well aware of the threat they represent.
Group I is far from a straightforward path for the vice-world champions. Senegal boast a squad packed with European-based talent, including stars from Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Al Nassr. Iraq, while the underdog, have shown resilience in Asian qualifiers. The match against Norway, however, could decide the group winner and set the tone for the knockout rounds.
For Deschamps, the immediate focus remains on the opener. "I'm not thinking about the third game; I'm thinking about the first one against Senegal, and then the second," he insisted. This step-by-step approach has served France well in past tournaments, but the shadow of Norway's attacking prowess looms large. A slip against either African or Asian opponent could leave them needing a result against Haaland and company.
Mbappé's leadership will be crucial in navigating this group. After a season in which he again topped scoring charts, the captain's influence extends beyond goals. His work rate in training and his communication on the pitch, as Deschamps emphasized, set the standard for a squad that blends youth with experience. The impending clash with Haaland adds a layer of personal rivalry, pitting two of the world's best forwards against each other.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.