Serie A’s global standing is self-evident, even as Italy misses out on another major tournament. The league continues to attract, develop, and showcase top footballing talent from around the world.
This is underscored by France’s latest World Cup squad selection. According to RMC Sport, coach Didier Deschamps is set to include four Serie A players in his final squad for the 2026 World Cup, a tournament Italy will not participate in.
Serie A Standouts in Deschamps’ Potential Squad
The reported squad features AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top shot-stoppers over the past three seasons. Maignan is a clear first choice for France.
Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram also earns his spot following an impressive 2025-26 campaign, marked by 16 goals in 34 Serie A appearances. His form builds on a strong Euro 2024 performance, solidifying his position as a reliable forward for Deschamps.
Adrien Rabiot, who transferred to AC Milan from Juventus in the summer of 2025, is another inclusion. With extensive international experience and a significant contribution in Serie A this season, Rabiot has found a renewed influence at San Siro.
The most notable inclusion is Roma midfielder Manu Koné. The 24-year-old, who joined from Borussia Mönchengladbach for €35 million in January 2026, has impressed with four goals and five assists in 18 Serie A games, earning his first senior call-up to the French national team.
Serie A’s Quiet Revival: The Meaning Behind France’s Choices
The presence of four French internationals playing in Serie A signifies more than just statistics; it reflects the league’s renewed reputation. Serie A, once criticized for tactical stagnation, is re-establishing itself as a league where elite players not only join but also excel.
Maignan and Thuram’s continued importance in the French squad after their spells in Milan demonstrates Serie A’s capacity to nurture international-calibre talent. This is further exemplified by players like Scott McTominay, who has flourished at Napoli.
The article also notes notable exclusions, such as Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram and AC Milan’s Youssouf Fofana, highlighting the depth of talent in Serie A and the intense competition for national team spots.
The Paradox: Italy Absent, Serie A Represented
This summer presents a difficult reality for Italian football: the national team has again failed to qualify for the World Cup. However, the league that hosts prominent clubs like Inter, Milan, and Juventus will still be represented in North America through players in the French squad, and likely others from different nations.
The talent deficit lies not within Serie A itself, but in the development pathways and youth structures that feed the Italian national team. France, in contrast, appears to have a more robust system, with Deschamps set to call upon Maignan, Thuram, Rabiot, and Koné, all of whom have honed their skills in Serie A.
While Italy will not be present at the World Cup, Serie A will be, showcasing the talent that continues to thrive within its borders.
