Ligue 1 stars snubbed for 2026 World Cup in XI selection

Lucas Chevalier remains uncapped for France despite PSG move last summer. The 24-year-old goalkeeper started the season as first choice but lost his place to Matvey Safonov. Didier Deschamps called him up in March, but Chevalier has not played since 23 January. Vanderson’s inconsistent season at AS Monaco cost him a Brazil call-up. The 24-year-old right-back featured in just 23 of 47 matches, contributing two assists. Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad omitted the versatile full-back. Malang Sarr’s resurgence at RC Lens went unnoticed by Senegal selectors. The 27-year-old centre-back was named in Ligue 1’s Team of the Season but remains a reserve option for Pape Thiaw. RC Lens finished fourth in Ligue 1. Charlie Cresswell’s Toulouse FC performances fell short for England. The 23-year-old defender played 40 matches but was overlooked for Gareth Southgate’s squad. Toulouse secured a sixth-place finish in Ligue 1. Matthieu Udol peaked at RC Lens after joining from FC Metz last summer. The 30-year-old left-back scored three goals and provided ten assists in 40 appearances. Pierre Sage’s system transformed Udol into a France call-up candidate. Tyler Morton left Liverpool for Lyon to restart his career. The 23-year-old midfielder quickly established himself in Olympique Lyonnais’ midfield. Arne Slot did not use him, but Morton’s first season in France was relatively successful. Corentin Tolisso enjoyed his best season at Olympique Lyonnais. The 31-year-old midfielder scored 15 goals and provided six assists in 39 matches. Didier Deschamps omitted him from France’s squad despite Tolisso’s form. Ansu Fati moved to AS Monaco to regain fitness. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder scored 13 goals in 30 appearances, starting just 13 times. Sébastien Pocognoli used him primarily as a substitute.