France's World Cup-winning midfielder N'Golo Kante has been reinstated to the national team roster, securing his place among the 25 players selected by manager Didier Deschamps for Euro 2024.
The 33-year-old, who played a pivotal role in France's 2018 World Cup victory, last represented his country in June 2022. Currently playing for Saudi club Al-Ittihad, Kante's inclusion marks his return to international duty.
Despite Kante's recent stint in a non-European league and previous injury concerns during his tenure at Chelsea, Deschamps expressed confidence in the midfielder's form and experience, emphasizing his potential contribution to the team's strength.
Among the fresh faces in the squad are Paris St-Germain's promising youngsters Warren Zaire-Emery, 18, and Bradley Barcola, 21, who have earned their spots after standout performances for the Ligue 1 champions.
Zaire-Emery, who has been granted special dispensation to defer his final school exams until September to focus on football, expressed his delight at the opportunity to represent his country at such a prestigious tournament.
In addition to the infusion of youth, Deschamps has retained established talents such as Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud, alongside emerging stars like Arsenal defender William Saliba.
France, aiming for their third European title following triumphs in 1984 and 2000, kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Austria in Stuttgart on June 17th.
Full France Euro 2024 Squad:
Goalkeepers:
Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens)
Defenders:
Jonathan Clauss (Marseille), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), William Saliba (Arsenal), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid), Benjamin Pavard (Bayern Munich), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders:
N'Golo Kante (Al-Ittihad), Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Adrien Rabiot (Juventus), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris St-Germain), Youssouf Fofana (Monaco)
Forwards:
Kylian Mbappe (Paris St-Germain), Bradley Barcola (Paris St-Germain), Ousmane Dembele (Paris St-Germain), Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan), Randal Kolo Muani (Paris St-Germain), Olivier Giroud (AC Milan)
