France arrive at the next World Cup carrying both pedigree and pressure. Winners in 2018 and finalists four years later, expectations remain constant, even as the squad evolves. At the center of those ambitions stands Ousmane Dembélé, fresh off a career defining year at club level and now looking ahead to one more shot at global glory.

According to CNN Sports, Dembélé spoke after being named Best Men’s Player at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, reflecting on what awaits France in the United States next summer.

A clear objective in mind

France’s recent World Cup history has been defined by fine margins. Triumph in Russia was followed by a dramatic defeat to Argentina in the final in Qatar. For Dembélé, that disappointment continues to shape the team’s mindset.

“We know what it takes to go all the way and we’re going to try to do everything to bring the trophy home,” Dembélé told CNN Sports. “We know we have a mission in the United States. We’ve been talking about this World Cup for a long time now and I think we’ll be ready for the occasion.”

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The tournament in North America offers France a chance not only at redemption but also at reaffirming their place among football’s dominant international sides.

A reshaped France squad

The group preparing for 2026 looks markedly different from the one that reached the final in 2022. Longtime figures such as Hugo Lloris, Raphaël Varane, Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud are no longer part of the setup.

Dembélé said the transition has been swift and largely positive.

“There’ve been a huge number of changes,” he said. “We’ve got talented players who’ve adapted very well to the style and squad.”

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Despite the turnover, expectations have not shifted. “The French team will always play a leading role in this kind of tournament, so you’ll have to count on us,” he added.

A match with personal meaning

France’s opening match against Senegal carries added significance for Dembélé, whose family roots span West Africa. His mother is Mauritanian Senegalese and his father is Malian, a background shared by several players across both squads.

“I received a ton of messages after that,” he said, recalling the draw. “People told me to score an own goal, literally.”

He added, “There are several of us in this team who are Senegalese and French. It’s going to be a very beautiful match.”

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A season that changed everything

At club level, 2025 marked a turning point. According to CNN Sports, Dembélé played a central role as Paris Saint Germain dominated domestically and lifted the Champions League trophy for the first time in the club’s history.

The campaign brought individual recognition as well, with Dembélé collecting the Ballon d’Or, the FIFA Best Award and the Globe Soccer Award. The honors stood in stark contrast to earlier seasons disrupted by injuries and intense scrutiny.

“I remember moments in my career when it was difficult, when I couldn’t give up,” he said. “It was mostly mental. You just have to keep playing.”

Carrying momentum into the future

Since joining PSG in 2023, Dembélé has flourished under Luis Enrique’s emphasis on collective responsibility over individual stardom. That approach, he believes, is central to sustained success.

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“Every footballer wants to have a team that is collectively very strong,” he said. “We want to be a united team and, above all, a great team.”

With club success behind him and a World Cup on the horizon, Dembélé now finds himself at a pivotal moment. The challenge ahead is clear, translating a golden year into lasting international legacy.

Sources: CNN Sports

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