Mbappé Key to France’s Success: Nasri on Dembélé’s World Cup Role

Paris – As France prepares for this summer’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, debate continues over the team’s hierarchy and who will lead Les Bleus to a potential third global title. Although Ousmane Dembélé’s recent form and Ballon d’Or win have elevated his status, former France international Samir Nasri believes Kylian Mbappé remains the undisputed leader and driving force of the national team.

Nasri, speaking on Canal+, asserted that removing the responsibility from Mbappé to place it on Dembélé would be a mistake. He emphasized that Dembélé needs to deliver a defining performance on a major stage to truly cement his position as a key player for France. The discussion highlights the evolving dynamics within the French squad as they navigate a transition period with a blend of experienced players and emerging talent.

Mbappé’s Consistent Impact

Kylian Mbappé has consistently proven his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, becoming a pivotal figure for France in recent tournaments. His contributions were instrumental in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and their run to the final in 2022. Mbappé’s speed, skill, and goal-scoring prowess make him a constant threat to opposing defenses, and Nasri believes that relying on him is a sensible strategy for Didier Deschamps’ side.

The Real Madrid forward’s influence extends beyond goals. he also creates opportunities for teammates and draws defensive attention, opening up space for others. This multifaceted ability is what Nasri believes sets Mbappé apart and justifies maintaining him as the focal point of the French attack. For context, Mbappé currently plays for Real Madrid, having moved there in 2024.

Dembélé’s Need for a Defining Moment

Ousmane Dembélé’s career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, but also inconsistency and injury setbacks. His recent form for Paris Saint-Germain, culminating in the 2025 Onze d’Or award, has signaled a turning point. Yet, Nasri argues that Dembélé still needs to replicate this form in a major tournament to truly establish himself as a leading figure for France.

According to Wikipedia, Dembélé was born in Vernon, France, on May 15, 1997, and currently plays as a forward or right winger for PSG. He has 57 caps for the French national team, scoring 7 goals as of September 5, 2025. The FIFA website highlights the long history between Dembélé and Mbappé, noting their potential to shine together at the 2025 Club World Cup.

Nasri’s point isn’t a dismissal of Dembélé’s talent, but rather a call for him to deliver a “match référence” – a standout performance against a top opponent in a crucial game. Such a performance would not only solidify his place in the team but also demonstrate his ability to consistently perform at the highest level when it matters most. CNN reported in January 2026 that Dembélé is poised to be one of the leading figures for France alongside Mbappé.

A Changing of the Guard?

The French national team is undergoing a period of transition, with several veteran players having retired after the 2022 World Cup. Hugo Lloris, Raphaël Varane, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud are no longer part of the squad, creating opportunities for younger players to step up. This shift in personnel means that the team’s dynamic is evolving, and the roles of players like Dembélé and Mbappé are becoming increasingly essential.

Deschamps faces the challenge of integrating these new players while maintaining the team’s winning mentality. Finding the right balance between experience and youth will be crucial for France’s success in the upcoming World Cup. The coach will need to carefully assess each player’s form and fitness and make decisions based on what he believes will grant the team the best chance of winning.

What’s Next for France?

France will continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a series of friendly matches in the coming months. These games will provide Deschamps with an opportunity to experiment with different formations and lineups and assess the form of his players. The team will be looking to build momentum and fine-tune their tactics before heading to the United States.

The World Cup itself will be held across multiple cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico, kicking off in June 2026. France will be hoping to make a strong showing and compete for their third World Cup title. The pressure will be on Mbappé and Dembélé to lead the team to glory, and their performances will be closely scrutinized by fans and pundits alike.

The next confirmed checkpoint for the French national team is a friendly match against Brazil on June 5, 2026, at the Stade de France in Paris. This match will serve as a final warm-up before the start of the World Cup tournament.

What do you think? Can Dembélé truly step up and share the spotlight with Mbappé, or will the latter remain France’s undisputed talisman? Share your thoughts in the comments below.