Four Serie A Stars Tipped for France World Cup 2026 Squad

France's national team manager, Didier Deschamps, is reportedly set to include four Serie A stars in his squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The players expected to make the cut are Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, Inter striker Marcus Thuram, Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, and Roma midfielder Manu Koné.

This news comes from RMC Sport, which has published what it claims to be the final squad list for the prestigious tournament. The inclusion of these four players highlights their consistent performances in Italy's top flight and their importance to Deschamps' plans for the World Cup campaign.

Key Serie A Inclusions

Mike Maignan, the highly-rated AC Milan custodian, has been a pivotal figure for his club, showcasing exceptional shot-stopping abilities and command of his area. His presence is crucial for France, especially given the competition for the number one spot. Marcus Thuram, Inter Milan's dynamic forward, has impressed with his goal-scoring prowess and versatility, making him a valuable asset for the French attack.

Adrien Rabiot, the experienced Juventus midfielder, continues to be a key component in both club and country setups, providing a blend of defensive solidity and offensive contribution. Manu Koné, currently with Roma, represents a rising talent whose performances have earned him a place among the elite, offering depth and energy to France's midfield.

Notable Absences

While these four Serie A players are set for World Cup action, the report also suggests that several other Serie A-based French hopefuls will miss out. Among those reportedly left out are Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram, younger brother of Marcus Thuram, and his Bianconeri teammate Pierre Kalulu.

Milan's Youssouf Fofana and Christopher Nkunku are also mentioned as players who will not be part of the squad travelling to North America. These omissions underscore the intense competition for places within the French national team, which boasts a wealth of talent across Europe's top leagues.

World Cup Preparations

The 2026 World Cup is rapidly approaching, and national teams are in their final stages of preparation. Deschamps' squad selection is a critical step in defining France's strategy and ambitions for the tournament. The blend of experience and emerging talent, including the Serie A contingent, will be vital as France aims for another strong showing on the global stage.

The tournament format and the challenges of competing across three host nations will demand a robust and adaptable squad. The performances of Maignan, Thuram, Rabiot, and Koné in Serie A have clearly caught the attention of the national team management, signaling their readiness for the international challenge.

Key facts

This development is significant for international football fans, particularly those following Serie A, as it confirms the continued influence of Italy's top league on major national teams. The inclusion of these players not only reflects their individual quality but also the competitive standard of Serie A. Their presence in the French squad could have tactical implications for Deschamps' strategy, impacting how France approaches both group stage matches and potential knockout fixtures. For clubs like Milan, Inter, Juventus, and Roma, having their players represent France at the World Cup is a source of pride and recognition of their talent development.

Fuente: Football Italia RSS, https://football-italia.net/report-france-call-4-serie-a-stars-world-cup/