2026 World Cup: Deschamps defends Mbappé as France's striker

On June 10, 2026, after a 3-1 win against Northern Ireland, Didier Deschamps defended Kylian Mbappé's role as center forward. Despite criticism and no goals in the last two matches, the coach believes Mbappé has the qualities to play centrally and that this role limits his defensive efforts. France, winners in 2018 and runners-up in 2022, rely on a top-form Mbappé for the 2026 World Cup.