Ekitike’s link with Mbappé boosts his 2026 World Cup left-side claim | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike’s strike in France’s 2-1 win over Brazil and his easy dovetailing with Kylian Mbappé have pushed him into serious contention to start on the left at the 2026 World Cup.

On Thursday in Foxborough, the 23-year-old made his first France start against opposition other than Azerbaijan, marking his third start in seven caps and scoring the second goal. L'Équipe notes he has accelerated his case barely seven months into his international career.

His season has been on an upward curve, the Brazil outing feeling like a continuation of his progress at Liverpool, where he has become the starting No 9 with 17 goals in all competitions. Many emerging forwards struggle to translate club form to country, yet this week he added end product to personality.

In the mixed zone he played down talk of a World Cup starting berth, saying he does not know and will simply give everything if offered the chance. Against Brazil he adapted to Mbappé’s movements and, fed by Michael Olise, finished with a deft clip at a key moment.

Didier Deschamps appreciated the depth and extra penalty-box presence he provided. Ekitike said starting on the left did not mean hugging the touchline, and that both Mbappé and the coach told him he had licence to roam.

His relationship with the France captain has matured since a tentative year together at PSG, Ekitike adding that he has now found more of his own identity and can either supply Mbappé or score himself. For now his squad place looks assured, and if he sustains this level he could challenge Bradley Barcola, who appears slightly ahead on recent PSG efficiency and the defensive work essential in this 4-2-3-1.

Source: L'Équipe