World Cup 2026: We’ve Stiff Competition In France Squad -Gusto

Chelsea defender Malo Gusto has disclosed that he’s determined to carve out a starting role for France at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Acknowledging the depth of the squad, the 23-year-old stated that his ambition is to play meaningful minutes rather than just sit on the bench.

Gusto also recognizes that Jules Koundé is currently the first-choice right-back under head coach Didier Deschamps.

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“We know we have a squad of very ‌high quality and competition is important,” ⁠Gusto told reporters ‌on Thursday.

“I know Jules starts. I came here to ​play, that’s why I’m here. The coach makes his choices. I’ll be ready whatever ​happens and I’ll give everything for the shirt whenever I’m on the pitch.”

“Honestly, I haven’t spoken to the coach yet. My ‌role is mainly to be ready. I didn’t start the first match, so I have to stay focused and I know that when the coach puts me on the pitch, I’ll give everything and I’ll make sure I show that I can play and that I can be in the starting 11,” Gusto said.

“My ‌mindset is that I’m in the squad and I want to play,” he said. “As a player, you want to take part. These are the competitions that drive me.”

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France opened their World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, though a sluggish first-half performance has opened the door for fringe players to prove their worth.

France is scheduled to face Iraq in Philadelphia for their next Group I fixture.