Rayan Cherki set to receive France call-up for upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers

France forward of Algerian descent, Rayan Cherki, is set to return to Les Bleus squad for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

According to reports from RMC Sport, France manager Didier Deschamps is expected to include the 22-year-old Manchester City attacking midfielder in his squad announcement on Thursday for the upcoming November international break.

Les Bleus are scheduled to host Ukraine before travelling to Baku to face Azerbaijan, with a win over Ukraine enough to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.

Cherki’s return marks a reshuffle in France’s attacking options compared to last month’s squad, which featured Jean-Philippe Mateta, Maghnes Akliouche, and Christopher Nkunku. The trio are expected to be omitted this time around.

Deschamps is likely to maintain a strong forward line featuring Kylian Mbappé, Kingsley Coman, Bradley Barcola, and Hugo Ekitiké, while Tottenham’s Randal Kolo Muani is also in contention for a recall following an impressive recent performance in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé are set to miss out due to injuries.

Cherki’s potential return adds creativity and flair to France’s attack as they aim to book their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.