Ekitiké misses out on France squad for World Cup qualifiers | OneFootball

Didier Deschamps has named his France squad to take on Ukraine and Iceland in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Despite a strong start to the season with his new club Liverpool, Hugo Ekitiké has not been included, while there is a first senior call-up for Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche.

Deschamps has opted not to select the uncapped Ekitiké, who has scored three goals in his first three senior starts under Arne Slot at Liverpool this season.

23-year-old Monaco attacker Akliouche could earn his first cap after scoring five goals and making 10 assists in Ligue 1 last season.

Les Blues' squad list includes several high-profile stars, including Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé.

France kick-starts their Group D World Cup qualification campaign against Ukraine on Friday, September 5 in Poland.

📸 George Wood - 2025 Getty Images