RMC: France Expected to Name Full 26-Man World Cup Squad, with Third-Goalkeeper Spot Still the Biggest Uncertainty

According to reports from RMC Sport, the biggest uncertainty in the current France World Cup squad revolves around the third-choice goalkeeper position.

Former captain Hugo Lloris has expressed willingness to return as a third goalkeeper, but he is unlikely to be called up by Didier Deschamps. Despite his outstanding career and former status as first-choice keeper, the coaching staff reportedly believe he may struggle to accept a purely backup role, which could disrupt squad harmony. His camp has also confirmed that he is now very unlikely to be included in the final squad.
Mike Maignan and Brice Samba have already secured the two main goalkeeper spots, leaving the third-choice position wide open with no clear favourite.

Early frontrunners such as Lucas Chevalier and Alphonse Areola have seen their chances drop significantly due to long spells out injured in the second half of the season, leaving them short of match fitness and not fully meeting national team requirements.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old Lens goalkeeper Yann Risser has emerged as a surprise leading candidate. He has impressed in Ligue 1, winning the league’s Goalkeeper of the Season award, and is already familiar with the national team setup after regularly training with the senior squad. He has recently been closely monitored by the coaching staff, and his chances of making the squad have risen sharply.

In addition, Deschamps has decided to submit a 26-man World Cup squad instead of the minimum 23. Given the long travel distance between Europe and the United States, difficulties in injury replacements, and the increased risk of fitness issues due to a congested season, France aim to maintain greater squad flexibility and reduce potential risks through a larger roster.