Most of the major bookmakers have France as the favorites to lift this summer’s World Cup. After missing out in Qatar four years ago, Les Bleus will be doing everything they can to make amends.

One man who isn’t with the squad is Eduardo Camavinga. The Real Madrid midfielder has been struggling to maintain form and although he was called up for friendlies against Brazil and Colombia in March, Deschamps wasn’t convinced, closing the final chapter in a saga that had been building for months.

Deschamps: “He’s had a difficult season”

After revealing his 26‑man squad, Deschamps addressed the decision: “He’s coming off a difficult season in which he played little and dealt with injuries. I can imagine his huge disappointment tonight… But he’s still young, and I have to make tough choices across defense, midfield, and attack.”

Official announcement

Deschamps selected Aurélien Tchouaméni and N’Golo Kanté as holding midfielders, with Adrien Rabiot, Warren Zaïre‑Emery and Youssouf Fofana (Koné in the original text) filling the interior roles. Five midfielders — but no Camavinga.

Not a shock — Camavinga knew he was on the edge

Inside the French camp, it was no secret: Camavinga was living on the razor’s edge of the squad list. His inclusion was always going to be a photo‑finish, and the lack of momentum in recent months sealed his fate.

For now, the 21‑year‑old will have to watch the World Cup from home and focus on rebuilding his form and confidence ahead of next season.

France Group I Stage Schedule

• June 16 France 3-1 Senegal
• June 22 5 p.m. ET France vs Iraq
• June 26 3 p.m. ET Norway vs France

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