Former Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has identified France as the frontrunners for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Les Bleus enter the largest tournament in global football as one of the top contenders.

France has claimed the FIFA World Cup title twice, in 1998 and 2018, and has also been runners-up on two occasions, in 2006 and 2022. The European powerhouse has reached the final four times in the last seven FIFA World Cups.

Wenger has expressed his confidence in his home country to triumph this time after their defeat to Argentina in the 2022 final. He asserts that the remarkable attacking strength of Les Bleus should suffice for them to secure their third FIFA World Cup victory. Wenger stated, as reported by Metro:

“I place them above the rest. France possesses immense talent, and Deschamps brings experience. We have numerous attacking players, which can lead to a slight imbalance offensively.

“However, today’s modern player, even those in attacking roles, understands the importance of contributing defensively. When the score is 0-0 against France with 20 minutes remaining, you are likely to lose the match. Power is what makes the difference.”

He has also highlighted Kylian Mbappe, asserting that the French star has faced undue criticism this season regarding his performances with Real Madrid. He remarked:

“There is one individual who stands at the center of all expectations: Kylian Mbappe. I am willing to wager that he will have an outstanding World Cup. He has been unjustly criticized frequently this season. He joined a mediocre Real Madrid team. Real now has three or four world-class players, whereas previously they had ten. In football, there is always a need for a scapegoat. He has become that [at Real Madrid].”

France is placed in Group I for the FIFA World Cup and is expected to secure the top position.

They will face Senegal, Norway, and Iraq in their group, commencing their campaign against Senegal on June 16.