N’Golo Kante is back in the France squad for the first time in a year. Despite moving to Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad in 2023, he has shown strong form and fitness, convincing Didier Deschamps he still belongs at the top level. Below you will see inormation about this news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
His recall comes ahead of two important World Cup qualifiers. France face Ukraine in Paris before travelling to Azerbaijan, knowing victories would secure their place at the 2026 World Cup. With key midfielders such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot injured, experience is needed more than ever.
Kante, now 34, has played 12 matches this season and continues to perform with the same intelligent movement, defensive strength, and calmness on the ball that made him a global star. His presence offers leadership during a tense moment in qualifying.
Deschamps Praises Kante’s Elite Level
Didier Deschamps explained that Kante is not being recalled for sentimental reasons. He believes the midfielder is still “at his best” and ready to take on a key role for the national team. Deschamps and his staff have been monitoring him closely.
The France boss said Kante plays regularly and maintains strong performance levels, even with the pressure of frequent games. He sees him as a player who can be trusted in big moments. Deschamps highlighted that when he selects Kante, it is always with purpose. France need leaders, and the 2018 World Cup winner still provides incredible value both on and off the pitch.
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A Leader Built on Hard Work and Class
From winning the Premier League with Leicester in 2016 to lifting the Champions League and the World Cup, he has achieved nearly everything in football. Some doubted whether moving to Saudi Arabia would hurt his level, but he has continued to play with energy and professionalism.
Genoa’s Theo Hernandez, also in the Saudi league, joins him in the squad showing Deschamps is open to new paths. Young talents like Eduardo Camavinga and Warren Zaïre-Emery are still developing, so Kante’s guidance could be crucial in shaping the next generation of France midfielders.
A Quiet Comeback with Big Importance
Kante had difficult final years at Chelsea due to injuries, but his comeback with France at Euro 2024 proved he can still shine in major tournaments. His experience brings calmness during high-pressure situations.
The next two games could shape both France’s qualification and Kante’s future with the national team. If he performs well, his international journey may continue into 2026. All eyes now turn to Paris as France host Ukraine. Kante rarely speaks loudly he lets his football make the noise and his return could be the spark France need at exactly the right time. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.