France

The majority of people are going to root for the title holders, France. The likes of Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Hugo Lloris, and Antoine Griezmann may be playing in their final World Cup, but the prolific talent production in Ligue 1 has kept the squad fresh. Christopher Nkunku, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Kylian Mbappe are all still 24 or younger. 

France finished qualifying with a perfect record. However, they drew three of their first five games. This came amid press grumblings of unhappiness following a disastrous Euro 2020 tournament.

The horror that Raymond Domenech experienced in South Africa in 2010 and the horrific capitulation that took place in 2002 are never too far from anyone’s mind.

However, Deschamps’ decision to prioritize the team’s cohesiveness over its individual talent has resulted in an exceptionally amicable group of athletes. Everything seems good at the moment.

TACTICS

Benzema’s return represented a more expansive growth for the team, which had achieved World Cup victory in 2018 by relying heavily on defensive stability and organizational structure. But, as the elimination of Switzerland from Euro 2020 shows, Deschamps has not yet found a good balance, even though he is always trying new things.

Many people continue to criticize Didier Deschamps for lacking style and passion, despite the fact that France won the World Cup in 2018 and the 2020–21 Nations League. 

READY TO SHINE

Kylian Mbappé

During the previous season, he contributed 39 goals, 26 assists, and a quiet authority to his performance.

He has all the makings of being the best player of this generation.