Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said France is his pick to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup [3].
Wenger's assessment carries weight given his history in European football and his current role in global game development. His prediction highlights the perceived gap between France and other global contenders as the tournament approaches.
Speaking in a video interview with the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel, Wenger said France is the only team capable of stopping the tournament favorites [1]. He said the potential of Kylian Mbappé and the general strength of the French squad are the primary drivers for this success [2].
France enters the 2026 competition with a recent history of high-level performance in the tournament. The team won the FIFA World Cup in 2018 [1] and reached the final in 2022, where they ultimately lost [1].
Wenger's confidence in the French side suggests that the team has maintained its competitive edge since the 2022 final. By focusing on individual talent and collective depth, the former manager believes the squad is positioned to reclaim the trophy they last held eight years ago.
The 2026 tournament represents a critical juncture for several veteran players. Wenger's focus on Mbappé indicates that the star forward remains the centerpiece of France's tactical strategy and their best chance for a championship run [2].
“France is the only team capable of stopping the tournament favourites”
Wenger's prediction underscores France's sustained dominance in international football over the last decade. By citing both individual brilliance and systemic strength, he suggests that France possesses a level of stability and talent depth that other nations have yet to replicate, making them the benchmark for success heading into 2026.
