FIFA World Cup: France hope to ride on superstars
France's 23-man squad is filled with superstars and like Spain, Brazil and Germany, they go into the 2018 FIFA World Cup as one of the favorites. France last won the coveted trophy way back in 1998 and have now gone 4 World Cups without winning the title. France will hope to ride on superstars, but can they go all the way?
The two players who will have the biggest impact on France's performance will be Antoine Griezmann and N'Golo Kante. The Atletico forward has been in top form and is the heart of the attack. Chelsea's Kante is the engine of the side in mid-field.
France have this section covered really well. Hugo Lloris is expected to lead the line with Steve Mandanda and Alphonse Areola being able back-ups. Lloris has grown on to become an effective custodian and the Tottenham Hotspur man has been putting in consistent shows. Areola has also impressed in large with his precision and decision making.
Central defender Raphael Varane hardly puts a foot wrong and winning with Real Madrid has given him confidence. Partnering him will be Samuel Umtiti, who has become a force at Barcelona. Adil Rami provides depth from the bench. PSG youngster Kimpembe adds energy as well. Lucas Hernandez will play as a left-back with Benjamin Mendy providing cover. Monaco's Sidibe will play at right-back.
France have a dream mid-field consisting of real steel and versatility. Kante is the obvious choice as the defensive mid-fielder with Blaise Matuidi being an equally good replacement. Manchester United's Paul Pogba needs to prove his worth and he brings many dimensions. Sevilla's Steven N'Zonzi has earned a place with Bayern's Corentin Tolisso bringing in character.
Griezmann will play centrally as the main striker in a three-man attack. He can shift to the flanks or the number 10 position when the formation is changed to allow Olivier Giroud to fit in. Kylian Mbappe is a sure starter alongside Thomas Lemar. Liverpool target Nabil Fekir can make an impact with his versatility. Ousmane Dembele and Florian Thauvin fill in as back-ups.
