Are France Even Better Than 2018? Dembélé Adds More Firepower

The conversation around the France national team has shifted from 'how good are they?' to 'are they the best ever?'. Coming off a World Cup win in 2018 and a heartbreaking final loss in 2022, Didier Deschamps has built a machine that only seems to be getting more efficient. With Ousmane Dembélé maturing into a consistent game-changer, the evidence is mounting that this iteration of Les Bleus might actually be superior to the previous golden generations.

The Evolution of Les Bleus

The core of the 2018 champions—Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and N'Golo Kanté—remains, but the team has evolved. Players like Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have injected fresh legs in midfield, while the defensive unit, anchored by Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konaté, offers a blend of youth and experience. This isn't the same side that triumphed in Russia; it's a squad that has refined its approach while maintaining its ruthless efficiency.

Deschamps has never been one for radical overhauls, but the subtle shifts in personnel and tactics have made France more adaptable. They can dominate possession or hit on the counter, control the midfield or bypass it entirely. The depth is staggering: even without Karim Benzema's retirement and injuries to key players, France have multiple formations and game plans at their disposal.

Dembélé's Arrival as a Difference-Maker

Ousmane Dembélé has long been seen as a player of immense potential, but injuries and inconsistency held him back. Now, after a stellar period at Paris Saint-Germain, he has blossomed into a reliable creative force. His direct running, dribbling ability, and improved end product give France a genuine wide threat that complements Mbappé's central dominance. In previous tournaments, France relied heavily on Mbappé's pace; now, with Dembélé stretching defenses on the flanks, opposition full-backs face a nightmare double act.

This added dimension means France are no longer predictable. They can attack from multiple angles, and Dembélé's link-up play with Griezmann and the midfielders creates overloads that are hard to defend. Moreover, his defensive work rate has improved, making him a more complete player in Deschamps' system.

What It Means for the Future

With Euro 2024 on the horizon, France look like the team to beat. Their ability to win games even when not at their best is a hallmark of champions. The 2018 team was clinical; the 2022 team was resilient; this 2024 vintage appears to combine both qualities with an added layer of unpredictability. If Dembélé continues his trajectory, France could dominate international football for years. The key will be managing egos and maintaining harmony in a squad full of superstars—something Deschamps has proven adept at. For neutrals, it's a terrifying prospect; for French fans, it's a golden era that might just get even golden.