N’Golo Kante returns to France’s national team squad after 2 years’ hiatus for Euro 2024

What pleased fans was that Kante hadn’t been called up to represent the Les Bleus for almost two years. His last appearance for the National team came back in 2022 and is yet to play for France since joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.

Kante’s inclusion in the 25-man preliminary roster comes as the result of impressive performances for the Saudi Pro League side. His two goals and five assists in 28 outings was enough to catch the eye of the French manager. Kante plays alongside former French International Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad.

France releases ‘exciting’ 25-man line-up ahead of 2024 Euros

With the 2024 Euros round the corner, the 2018 World Cup champions and two-time Euro champions France have released a provisional squad list.

From N’Golo Kanté‘s shock inclusion to Olivier Giroud and Bradley Barcola , the squad is an equal balance between defense and attack. After the embarrassing exit in the 2020 Euros to Switzerland in the Round of 16, the Les Bleus will be out to make up for the same.

Despite making the move to LAFC a few days ago, Didier Deschamps has handed the 37-year-old Giroud what is likely to be his final major tournament. Kylian Mbappe is set to lead them in attack, with club teammates Ousmane Dembele, Barcola and Randal Kolo Muani also making the squad.

FC Barcelona’s Jules Koundé, the in-form Arsenal defender William Saliba and Theo Hernandez all make the team. Real Madrid stars Aurelien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga will also play a significant role in the French midfield for the upcoming tournament. The competition will be played from 15th June to 15th of July.