Lucas Chevalier, Vanderson, Malang Sarr miss World Cup

Get French Football News has compiled a Ligue 1 XI of the most notable omissions from the 2026 World Cup. While 79 Ligue 1 players are set to represent their countries, several have been left out by national team coaches. Goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier of Paris Saint-Germain (France) joined PSG last summer hoping to advance his career. He began the season as a first‑team regular but was later displaced by Matvey Safonov and relegated to the bench. Despite a March call‑up from Didier Deschamps, his last match on the pitch was on 23 January. Right‑back Vanderson of AS Monaco (Brazil) has struggled for consistency this season. He appeared in 23 of Monaco’s 47 matches and recorded two assists. Carlo Ancelotti omitted him from his 26‑man World Cup squad. Centre‑back Malang Sarr of RC Lens (Senegal) revived his career after a period at Chelsea. His performances earned him a place in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season. Senegal manager Pape Thiaw kept him as a reserve and did not select him for the tournament. Centre‑back Charlie Cresswell of Toulouse FC (England) enjoyed another fine season. The 23‑year‑old is poised for a possible return to the Premier League this summer. Left‑back Matthieu Udol of RC Lens (France) signed from FC Metz last summer. He contributed three goals and ten assists in 40 appearances, totaling 13 decisive actions. He fit into the system devised by Pierre Sage. His form has sparked speculation about a first call‑up to the France squad. Midfielder Tyler Morton of Lyon (England) left Liverpool FC a year ago under Arne Slot. He quickly established himself in Olympique Lyonnais’ midfield, though fatigue built up in the final weeks. Morton now harbours high hopes for the coming years. Midfielder Corentin Tolisso of Lyon (France) has openly expressed a desire to rejoin the national team. He said he had the best season of his career after a match against RC Lens. He scored 15 goals and provided six assists in 39 matches, yet was not called up. Attacking midfielder Ansu Fati of AS Monaco (Spain) used his move to regain full fitness. He has not become a regular under Sébastien Pocognoli but is regarded as a top‑class substitute.