Griezmann had starred in France’s run to the World Cup in 2018, scoring four goals and setting up another three. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

France, after a win over Senegal in its FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, will look to continue its form against Iraq in their Group I clash in Philadelphia on Monday.

However, Les Bleus will be without one of its star forwards Antoine Griezmann for the showpiece event.

The 35-year-old, who scored 44 goals across 137 appearances for France, had announced his retirement from international football in September 2024.

The Euro 2024 was the last tournament the French talisman played. He had been a central cog in the France team through its Euro campaign in 2016 where it reached the final and the World Cup triumph in Russia two years later.

However, France still has a power-packed forward line which is heralded by Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele. With Michael Olise and Desire Doue stepping up and playing at either wing, France remains one of the strongest contenders to bid for the trophy.

Published on Jun 16, 2026