Kylian Mbappe believes France carry more attacking threat than their previous World Cup squads as Les Bleus prepare for Monday’s Group I match against Iraq, where the captain will win his 100th international cap.
France reached the last two World Cup finals and arrived in 2026 with another squad packed with attacking options. Didier Deschamps saw his side pull away from Senegal after the break in their opening match, with Mbappe scoring twice and Bradley Barcola adding another goal from the bench.
Mbappe believes the current side attacks with greater intent than the groups that reached the 2018 and 2022 finals.
“This is a more attacking team than in 2018 and 2022, a team that is much more geared towards going forward,” Mbappe said.
“The second half was already a glimpse of what we can do when we’re in good technical conditions.”
France struggled for rhythm during the first half against Senegal before Michael Olise injected pace and movement into the game. Mbappe pointed towards the understanding developing between himself, Olise, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue.
“We had that connection with Michael because the four of us in attack managed to be perfectly coordinated in terms of movement, positioning and rotations,” he said.
“With this type of movement and rotation, maybe tomorrow it will be two other attacking players who shine more.”
Mbappe also defended Ballon d’Or winner Dembele after questions emerged around his display against Senegal.
“In the first half, he’s the best attacker out of the four. He’s the one who makes our play flow the most,” Mbappe said.
France now need victory against Iraq to secure a place in the knockout stage. Mbappe will also reach another personal landmark in Philadelphia.
“It is always a pleasure to have the chance to play for your country. There is nothing bigger,” he said.
“One hundred is a historic figure, and to have the chance to reach that tally here at a World Cup means it will be a special match for me.”
