Warren Zaïre-Emery, Malo Gusto and Jules Koundé in three-way fight for France right-back at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

The battle for France right-back at the 2026 World Cup, from 11 June to 19 July, pits Warren Zaïre-Emery, Malo Gusto and Jules Koundé against each other.

According to L'Équipe, Didier Deschamps is not currently inclined to shift Zaïre-Emery there long term, yet several influential voices believe he could credibly compete for the role.

Used frequently at right-back for PSG, Zaïre-Emery views his versatility as a benefit. Critics counter that his defensive habits remain raw and that experience counts, noting he has yet to reach 50 senior games in the role. Some former France full-backs argue Koundé and Gusto understand the position better and that Achraf Hakimi’s return will likely move him back into midfield.

Gusto remains a trusted pick at Chelsea under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, starting six of the last seven matches, though performances have varied, including moments of hesitation in the 2-2 draw with Leeds. He is regarded as strong between the boxes but urged to be more decisive in both. He has two goals and nine Premier League assists across two and a half seasons and, crucially, has stayed fit this campaign, already reaching 33 games after earlier injury-hit years.

Koundé’s Barcelona form last season set a high bar, and this term has dipped below those standards. Club figures see no alarm, stressing the demands of playing full-back behind Lamine Yamal in an ultra-offensive side and the fact he is not a natural in the role. After a late April 2025 hamstring injury against Inter, he endured a disrupted pre-season, but he is considered a fighter, is contracted until 2030 and remains central to Hansi Flick’s plans.

Selection could hinge on spring rhythm and early tournament form, and Zaïre-Emery’s flexibility may still book his ticket to the United States. France’s recent history offers caution, the right-back who started the finals in 2018 and 2022 was not the pre-tournament favourite.

Source: L'Équipe