Mansion Sports – France head coach Didier Deschamps has recalled N’Golo Kante to the national squad for the first time in a year, praising the 34-year-old midfielder as a player who “remains at the top of his game.” 

The Al-Ittihad star has impressed with his consistency in Saudi Arabia and will join Les Bleus for crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Ukraine and Azerbaijan this month.

Kante Rejoins France for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Deschamps included Kante in France’s latest squad list, marking his first call-up in a year as the team prepares for two decisive World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Azerbaijan. 

The decision came as a surprise to many, given Kante’s move to the Saudi Pro League in 2023 with Al-Ittihad. 

However, Deschamps emphasized that the former Chelsea and Leicester City midfielder remains an integral part of his plans.

Kante last appeared for Les Bleus in November 2024, captaining the team in a goalless Nations League draw against Israel. 

Since then, he has gradually rebuilt his rhythm and form in Saudi Arabia, making 12 appearances in all competitions this season.

Currently, France lead Group D of the World Cup qualifiers with 10 points, three ahead of Ukraine. 

With two decisive fixtures remaining—hosting Ukraine on November 13 and traveling to Azerbaijan three days later—Deschamps has turned once again to experience and reliability.

Kante’s recall underscores his exceptional consistency, leadership, and ability to influence matches even in a new environment. 

The midfielder, who has earned 64 international caps, joins a squad missing several key players through injury, including Ousmane Dembele, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Adrien Rabiot.

“He’s Still at His Best” – Deschamps Praises Kante’s Professionalism

Deschamps lauded Kante’s professionalism and quality when asked about the midfielder’s return to the national team. 

“I have stayed in contact with him. Based on the matches I’ve watched, he is still performing at his best; he plays every three or four days,” said Deschamps. “He deserves to be selected, and that is why he’s back with us.”

He continued, “He has to maintain his place; he carries a certain status and experience. When I call him up, it’s not simply to fill the squad—it’s to give him a role. With the matches we have ahead, which could prove decisive, he’s always in my thoughts. My coaching staff and I have been closely monitoring his performances. He’s always proud to wear this shirt.”

Deschamps clarified that this decision is not driven by nostalgia, but rather by Kante’s enduring tactical importance—his ability to dictate tempo and provide balance in midfield. The coach’s words reflect the deep respect for Kante’s influence both on and off the pitch.

While younger talents such as Eduardo Camavinga and Warren Zaire-Emery continue to develop, Deschamps believes that the 2018 World Cup winner still holds a special place due to his combination of energy, composure, and experience.

A Symbol of Resilience and Leadership

Few players have maintained the consistency and excellence that define N’Golo Kante’s career. 

Since emerging as a key figure in Leicester City’s 2016 Premier League triumph, the midfielder has conquered nearly every major competition—two Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and a World Cup.

At Al-Ittihad, Kante has displayed quiet leadership and sustained performance levels. 

Although the competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League continues to spark debate, he stands out as one of the few foreign players maintaining elite physical standards and professionalism across all competitions.

Deschamps and his coaching team have closely tracked Kante’s recent performances and been impressed by his fitness and influence. 

He is not the only player from the Saudi Pro League included in the current France squad—Theo Hernandez, now with Al-Hilal, also received a call-up, marking a new era of openness under Deschamps toward players competing outside Europe’s top leagues.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta retained his place after debuting in October, while young talents Rayan Cherki and Randal Kolo Muani have returned following injury recoveries.

Kante’s Remarkable Comeback Continues

After enduring a series of injuries during his final seasons with Chelsea, Kante’s resurgence has become one of football’s most inspiring stories. His performances at Euro 2024, where France reached the semifinals, proved that his stamina and reliability in high-pressure matches remain intact.

Now, as Les Bleus edge closer to securing a World Cup berth, Kante’s presence brings stability and composure to the midfield. 

His deep understanding of Deschamps’ system, coupled with his exceptional anticipation and ball-winning instincts, makes him an ideal anchor for a team in transition.

The upcoming two matches will determine not only France’s qualification but also the veteran’s international future. 

For Kante, this represents an opportunity to show that genuine class and consistency never fade, even after a move that many viewed as signaling the end of his European relevance.

All eyes will be on him when France host Ukraine in Paris. If Deschamps’ faith proves justified, Kante’s calm return could once again serve as the defining voice of the 2018 World Cup champions.