World Cup 2026: Ousmane Dembélé urges France teammates to unite to win tournament

Ousmane Dembélé has stressed the importance of collective effort if France national football team are to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy, insisting that every player must contribute both offensively and defensively.

France heads into the tournament as one of the favourites after reaching the final of the previous World Cup and winning the competition in 2018.

Dembélé Calls For Team Unity

Speaking to RMC Sport, the Ballon d’Or winner highlighted the need for total teamwork if France hopes to go all the way this summer.

“There are big teams, but as I said to the team in March too, if we want to win, we need to attack as a team and defend as a team. In 2026, that is the only way that you can get to the end,” Dembélé said.

The French winger has built a reputation for his relentless pressing and defensive work rate, qualities that became especially visible during Paris Saint-Germain FC’s UEFA Champions League triumph last season.

Comments Spark Debate Around Kylian Mbappé

Dembélé’s comments have sparked speculation among French media and supporters over whether the remarks were indirectly aimed at Kylian Mbappé.

The Real Madrid CF forward has previously faced criticism regarding his defensive contribution and pressing intensity.

Earlier this year, Real Madrid defender Fran García suggested that increased defensive work from Mbappé would benefit the team.

“If Mbappé did more running, it would help the rest of the team a lot,” Garcia reportedly said.

Former Paris Saint-Germain FC teammate Presnel Kimpembe also previously joked about the issue while discussing Mbappé’s style of play.

“I told him that he tired me out when he didn’t run. But he is too good with his responses, Kylian. He has a real comeback,” Kimpembe said.

France Among World Cup Favourites

Despite the growing discussion around team balance and defensive effort, France remains one of the strongest contenders heading into the World Cup thanks to the depth and quality available within the squad.

With stars such as Dembélé and Mbappé expected to lead the attack, the French national team will once again be aiming to challenge for football’s biggest prize.