The French national team has arrived in the United States ahead of a promotional tour with Nike and two high-profile friendly matches against Brazil, and Colombia. Ahead of those contests, the official squad numbers for these upcoming games have been released, offering a glimpse into the tactical setup and player assignments for Les Bleus.
A notable change sees Désiré Doué taking over the number 20 jersey previously worn by Bradley Barcola. Newcomer Maxence Lacroix will debut with the number 17 on his back. As expected, captain Kylian Mbappé retains the iconic number 10, although Ousmane Dembélé will continue to sport the number 7.
These number assignments, while seemingly minor, often provide insight into a coach’s plans and the perceived importance of each player within the squad. The shift from Barcola to Doué at number 20 could signal increased opportunities for the latter in these upcoming matches. Lacroix’s selection of 17 suggests he’s being integrated into a key role within the defensive setup.
The France squad is currently preparing for a busy schedule that includes media engagements alongside Nike, their official kit supplier. The partnership with Nike extends beyond mere branding; it’s a collaborative effort to enhance the team’s visibility and connect with fans globally. The US tour is a strategic move to tap into the growing soccer fanbase in North America, particularly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming on the horizon, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The friendly against Brazil promises to be a particularly challenging test. Brazil, as highlighted by recent kit releases according to Goal.com, has unveiled its new kits for the 2026 World Cup cycle. The match will provide a valuable opportunity for both teams to experiment with tactics and assess player combinations ahead of the tournament.
Following the Brazil match, France will face Colombia, offering another chance to fine-tune their preparations. The two friendlies are crucial for coach Didier Deschamps to evaluate his options and solidify his squad ahead of the competitive matches later in the year. The US tour represents a significant investment in building momentum and fostering team cohesion.
The selection of squad numbers, while often overlooked, is a small but significant detail in the broader context of international soccer. It reflects the coach’s vision, the players’ roles, and the team’s overall strategy. As France embarks on this US tour, all eyes will be on how these numbers translate into performance on the field.
France’s next confirmed match is against Brazil, scheduled for a date to be announced. Following that, they will face Colombia. Fans can stay updated on the team’s progress through official channels, including the French Football Federation website and social media accounts.
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