Why was Hugo Ekitike left out of France's FIFA World Cup 2026 squad?
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Les Bleus are placed in Group I alongside Norway, Senegal and Iraq.
The France national football team are now gearing up to battle it out at the 2026 FIFA World Cup without forward Hugo Ekitike. Their squad for the mega competition has been announced and it will be interesting to witness their performances with a star-studded lineup.
A total of 48 teams are going to compete across the United States of America, Mexico and Canada to determine the best national team on the world stage. There are going to be 104 fixtures in total, all full entertaining contests to witness.
Les Bleus last lifted the World Cup trophy back in 2018. They came close to clinching it once again in 2022, but Lionel Messi‘s Argentina outplayed them in the final. Didier Deschamps’ French national football team consists of some top stars.
With Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe in the front, Michael Olise alongside Desire Doue on the wings, it is going to be hard for the opponents to stop them.
Why has Hugo Ekitike been left out?
Hugo Ekitike tore his Achilles tendon during the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He is not expected to return in time for France at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 23-year-old has undergone a successful surgery.
In his debut season for the Reds, he scored 17 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions. In his absence, France has options like Jean-Philippe Mateta and Marcus Thuram. Both can play in a proper number nine position.
Meanwhile, N’Golo Kanté, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot will be controlling the midfield. They are expected to start under Deschamps. Ibrahim Konate and Dayot Upamecano are going to be major pillars in the defensive wall.
Even without Hugo Ekitike, they have an outstanding squad depth, which is going to be helpful for them through the tournament.
How many times have France won the FIFA World Cup?
Les Bleus have won FIFA’s flagship competition on two occasions (1998 and 2018).
Who is the head coach of the France national football team?
Didier Deschamps since 2012.
Which teams will France play in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026?
They are placed in Group I alongside Norway, Senegal and Iraq.
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Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.