French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron met with the French national football team ahead of their departure to the United States for the FIFA World Cup. The couple also interacted with the country's women's football team during the visit.
Presidential Visit at Clairefontaine
The French Football Federation's official social media handle announced the visit, stating, "French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron visited the country's national football team ahead of their departure for the World Cup. France are one of the favourites going into the competition. This will be the final major tournament for head coach Didier Deschamps, after 14 years in charge of the national team."
The President and First Lady met the players and coaching staff at the Clairefontaine training center, offering encouragement before the team's journey to the United States.
France's World Cup Campaign
France is placed in Group I alongside Senegal, Iraq, and Norway. The two-time champions will open their campaign against Senegal on June 16 in New Jersey. The team has performed impressively in recent tournaments, reaching the quarterfinals in 2014, winning the title in 2018, and finishing as runners-up to Argentina in 2022.
France's World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan, Robin Risser, Brice Samba
Defenders: Lucas Digne, Malo Gusto, Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, Maxence Lacroix, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano
Midfielders: N'Golo Kante, Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery
Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Marcus Thuram
This squad blends experienced stars like Kylian Mbappe and N'Golo Kante with emerging talents, aiming to bring the World Cup trophy back to France.
