Arsene Wenger backs France to win 2026 World Cup, highlights Mbappe
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has named France as the frontrunner for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the team's strong pedigree and attacking depth. Les Bleus have won the tournament twice (1998, 2018), been runners-up twice (2006, 2022), and reached the final four in four of the last seven World Cups. Wenger pointed to France's abundant attacking talent, especially Kylian Mbappe, whom he believes has been unfairly criticized at Real Madrid and will shine in the tournament. He warned that even with a 0-0 score late in games, France's offensive power often makes the difference.
For Nigerian football fans, this matters because France is placed in Group I alongside Senegal, Norway, and Iraq, opening their campaign against Senegal on June 16, 2026. A strong France could influence the group's dynamics and affect African teams' chances of advancing. Wenger's endorsement also adds weight to discussions about Mbappe's form and the broader narrative of African representation in the tournament.
Watch the France vs Senegal match on June 16 to see how the prediction holds up. Consider supporting Senegal as Africa's representative, follow updates on Group I results, and note that the World Cup runs from June to July 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.