France World Cup 2022 guide: Star player, fixtures, squad, one to watch, odds to win

Defending champions France are plagued by injuries with the likes of Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante out, and have just endured a Nations League campaign not much better than England’s.

They remain, however, arguably the most talented set of players at the tournament with a blend of proven winners and ridiculous young talent.

Here’s everything you need to know about France…

Coach: Didier Deschamps. Now a decade in the job, looking to become only the second manager to win two World Cups.

Captain: Hugo Lloris. Tottenham’s goalkeeper turns 36 on Boxing Day and this could prove a farewell tournament.

Star player: Kylian Mbappe. All sorts of off-field distraction, but lethal on it for PSG this season.

One to watch: Eduardo Camavinga, Already a star for Real Madrid, he has all the ability to announce himself on the world stage.

Odds to win: 29/4

World ranking: 4th

Best thing about them: Evolution since 2018 has the likes of Edouard Camavinga, William Saliba and Aurelien Tchouameni competing to feature.

Worst thing about them: Could the curse of previous winners and group stage exits strike again?

Their prospects in three words: Blue, blue Christmas?

Fixtures (all times GMT)

November 22 vs Australia (7pm)

November 26 vs Denmark (4pm)

November 30 vs Tunisia (3pm)

Squad in full

Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Hugo Lloris, Steve Mandanda

Defenders: Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, Benjamin Pavard, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Raphael Varane

Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, Matteo Guendouzi, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jordan Veretout

Forwards: Karim Benzema, Kingsley Coman, Ousmane Dembele, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe, Randal Kolo Muani