Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL ANTOINE GRIEZMANN PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Antoine Griezmann is one of the most recognizable names in French football over the last decade. With titles, goals, and leadership to his name, many fans wonder if the 'Little Prince' will be present at the 2026 World Cup. Although time waits for no one, his level remains high and his commitment to the French national team unwavering. In this article, we review his current form, the most relevant statistics, the outlook for the French national team, and what could tip the scales for (or against) his presence at the next World Cup.
Griezmann's Current Situation in 2025
Antoine Griezmann, now 34 years old, continues to be a key player for Atlético de Madrid. Despite his age, his performance hasn't declined as one might expect: he remains an undisputed starter under Diego Simeone and has shown that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
In the 2024–2025 season, Griezmann has accumulated more than 40 appearances across La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey. He has scored 18 goals and provided 12 assists, demonstrating an ability to influence the game both through scoring and playmaking.
Key Statistics
Over 130 appearances for the French national team.
World Cup winner in 2018 and runner-up in 2022.
France's all-time leading assist provider in official tournaments.
Player with the most consecutive appearances for France between 2017 and 2023.
Average of 0.45 goals per game Atlético in the last season.
These figures not only demonstrate his continued relevance, but also reflect the player's evolution: today he is more cerebral, more complete, and possesses the vision of a veteran leader on the field.
France on the Road to the 2026 World Cup
France is always a contender, and 2026 will be no exception. With a young generation led by Kylian Mbappé, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and William Saliba, Les Bleus have a bright future. However, Didier Deschamps (or whoever the manager is at that time) knows that no championship team is built on youth alone: experience is essential, and that's where Griezmann comes in.
During Euro 2024 and the 2025 Nations League, Griezmann has continued to be called up and has shown that his fitness allows him to compete with younger players. His new role, playing deeper in the attacking midfield, makes him the perfect link between the lines. It no longer depends solely on his speed or goal-scoring ability, but on his tactical intelligence.
Key factors for his call-up
Physical condition in the 2025-2026 season.
Level of young attacking talents like Zaire-Emery or Cherki.
Need for a leader with experience in long tournaments.
Tactical decision of the coaching staff regarding formation and system.
Griezmann's ability to adapt to secondary roles.
Will we see him at the World Cup?
Everything seems to indicate that yes. If Griezmann maintains his current form, his name has a very good chance of appearing on the final roster for the 2026 World Cup. With the expansion to 26 players per national team, having someone with his profile becomes even more logical: he doesn't occupy the "promising talent" category, but adds experience and solutions in attack or midfield.
Furthermore, his versatility is pure gold: he can play as an attacking midfielder, winger, second striker, or even central midfielder. That makes him a tactical Swiss Army knife for any coach. And in a competition like the World Cup, having players who can cover several positions is vital.
Interesting facts about Griezmann
Before turning professional, he was rejected by several French clubs because of his physique.
He always warms up to reggaeton and French rap music.
At the 2018 World Cup, he wore the same boots in every match as a good luck charm.
He has said in interviews that he would like to retire in MLS.
His family is very into soccer: his sister works for his agency and his father was a coach In short, Griezmann has the experience, quality, and character to be at the 2026 World Cup. If his body holds up, there's no reason to rule him out. And if he makes it, it won't just be out of nostalgia: it will be because he can still make a difference on the pitch. As Atlético Madrid fans say, "Grizi is eternal."
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