Excitement is building as France unveils its 23-man squad for the September 2025 FIFA World Cup qualification matches, and there’s no shortage of talking points ahead of their highly anticipated clash with Ukraine. The French Football Federation, led by manager Didier Deschamps, made the official announcement on August 27, 2025, ending weeks of speculation and setting the stage for a dramatic start to the European qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup.
This latest roster is a blend of established superstars, fresh faces, and a couple of surprising omissions. Fans will notice right away that Liverpool’s high-flying new signing, Hugo Ekitike, who’s been on fire with three goals and an assist in just three appearances for the Merseyside club, hasn’t made the cut. Instead, Deschamps has opted to hand a debut to 23-year-old Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche, a decision that’s already sparking heated debates among supporters and pundits alike.
Let’s break down the squad. Between the posts, France boasts an enviable trio: Lucas Chevalier of PSG, Mike Maignan from Milan, and Brice Samba representing Rennes. Each brings a unique set of skills, but the big question remains—who will get the nod as the starting goalkeeper? Maignan, with his Champions League experience, is the favorite, but Chevalier’s recent performances for PSG have turned heads. According to the official squad announcement, "Lucas Chevalier, Mike Maignan, and Brice Samba will compete for the goalkeeper position."
In defense, Deschamps has called up a formidable lineup: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Lucas Hernandez (PSG), Theo Hernandez (Al-Hilal), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), and Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich). These defenders offer a mix of speed, technical ability, and physical presence—qualities that have defined French backlines for years. Notably, both Hernandez brothers are included, providing versatility on the flanks and a touch of sibling rivalry to the squad dynamic.
The midfield selection is equally intriguing. Desire Doue (PSG), Manu Kone (Roma), Adrien Rabiot (Marseille), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), and Khephren Thuram (Juventus) make up the core. Rabiot’s inclusion is particularly eye-catching given his recent off-field controversy. After Marseille’s loss to Rennes, Rabiot was suspended by his club following a locker-room altercation with teammate Jonathan Rowe. As reported, "Adrien Rabiot, suspended by Marseille after a fight with a teammate, is still included in the national squad." The incident led to both players being put on the transfer list, with Milan reportedly interested in signing the French midfielder. Despite the drama, Deschamps has placed his trust in Rabiot’s abilities and experience.
Up front, France’s attacking options are as dazzling as ever. The forwards named include Maghnes Akliouche (Monaco), Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele (both PSG), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), and Marcus Thuram (Inter). The presence of Mbappe and Dembele ensures that France will have plenty of pace and flair in the final third, while Akliouche’s inclusion signals a willingness to inject fresh energy into the squad. As the official French national team account stated, "Didier Deschamps has unveiled his list of 23, with the first call-up for Maghnes Akliouche. Now all eyes turn to the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers!"
The squad announcement comes just days ahead of France’s crucial opener against Ukraine, scheduled for September 5, 2025, in Wroclaw, Poland. Four days later, Les Bleus will host Iceland in Paris on September 9. These matches form part of Group D, which also features Azerbaijan, adding another layer of competition as the teams vie for a coveted spot at the World Cup in North America.
One of the most debated aspects of this roster is the omission of Hugo Ekitike, the Liverpool forward who’s been making headlines in the Premier League. Many expected Ekitike’s recent form to secure him a place, but Deschamps has chosen to stick with a mix of proven internationals and promising newcomers. While Ekitike’s absence is disappointing for some, it underscores the depth of talent available to the French manager.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of Akliouche has been met with both excitement and curiosity. The Monaco midfielder has quietly built a reputation for his technical skill and vision, and at 23, he’s finally earned his shot on the international stage. Fans will be eager to see if he can translate his club performances to the highest level. "It’s a dream come true to be called up for France," Akliouche said in a brief statement shared by the team’s press office. "I’m ready to give everything for my country."
Elsewhere in the squad, the selection of Adrien Rabiot is a clear message from Deschamps that he values ability and experience over recent controversies. Rabiot’s situation at Marseille remains unresolved, but his international pedigree—combined with the manager’s public backing—suggests he will play a significant role in the upcoming qualifiers. According to a source close to the federation, "Deschamps remains confident in Rabiot’s professionalism and believes he can separate club issues from national team duties."
France’s group rivals are not to be underestimated. Ukraine, their first opponent, has shown resilience in recent tournaments, while Iceland’s reputation as giant-killers remains intact after their memorable Euro 2016 run. Azerbaijan, though considered outsiders, could still spring a surprise or two. The scheduling of the Ukraine match in Wroclaw adds an extra twist, as France will be playing on neutral ground—a factor that could influence the game’s tempo and atmosphere.
Looking at the broader context, France enters this qualification cycle with high expectations. After a mixed showing at the last European Championship and a narrow miss at the 2022 World Cup final, the pressure is on Deschamps and his squad to deliver. The blend of established stars like Mbappe and emerging talents such as Akliouche and Barcola offers a tantalizing glimpse of the future. Will this combination be enough to secure a smooth path to the 2026 World Cup?
As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes are on France to see how this new-look squad will gel. Will the debutants rise to the occasion? Can the veterans maintain their high standards amid growing competition? And how will Deschamps manage the delicate balance between youth and experience?
One thing’s for sure: the next two matches promise drama, intrigue, and plenty of talking points for fans and analysts alike. With Ukraine and Iceland looming, France’s journey toward the 2026 World Cup is about to begin in earnest—and it’s shaping up to be a ride full of surprises.
