Kanté Deserves One Last Dance in Blue: Why Deschamps Must Give the Midfield Maestro His Farewell World Cup Moment.
As France prepares for the third-place playoff against England at the 2026 World Cup, one name continues to spark passionate debate among fans and pundits alike: N’Golo Kanté. The 35-year-old midfield dynamo, a cornerstone of France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, has shockingly not seen a single minute of action in the tournament so far. With Les Bleus eliminated in the semi-finals by Spain (0-2), the upcoming match against England represents what could be Kanté’s final opportunity to wear the national team jersey on football’s grandest stage.
Kanté’s exclusion has left many bewildered. Known as an indefatigable engine capable of covering every blade of grass, winning duels, and providing quiet leadership, he has been a reliable pillar for France over a decade. Thierry Henry, among others, has been vocal: “Kanté should never have been on the bench throughout this tournament. He is the one who carried France for years—a machine, a leader, and a World Cup winner.” Henry highlighted Kanté’s value not just in ball recovery but in energy, tactical intelligence, and spirit—qualities sorely missing in France’s midfield struggles against Spain.
Why This Feels Like a Missed Opportunity
At 35, Kanté is in the twilight of his international career. World Cup 2030 would see him at 39, making appearances increasingly unlikely. His recruitment to the squad signaled Deschamps’ recognition of his enduring quality, yet the decision to keep him sidelined—even in matches where France lacked control—raises questions about squad management. Kanté’s experience could have stabilized the midfield, injected urgency, and provided a morale boost in crucial moments.
From my perspective, this goes beyond tactics. Kanté embodies the unsung hero archetype: relentless work rate without seeking spotlight. Denying him minutes feels like an injustice to a player who has given everything for France. Granting him a start or significant role against England would serve as a fitting tribute—a chance to bow out with dignity and perhaps inspire one final memorable performance. Football owes such gestures to legends who prioritize team over personal glory. It would also send a powerful message about loyalty and respect in an era often dominated by flashier talents.
Historical Context and What’s at Stake
France’s semi-final exit was disappointing, but the third-place match offers redemption and a chance to end the tournament on a high. England, fresh from their own semi-final heartbreak against Argentina, will be motivated. Kanté’s inclusion could disrupt their rhythm with his trademark interceptions and pressing. Beyond the result, it’s about legacy: allowing a warrior like Kanté to add one more chapter honors his contributions since 2018.
As the tournament winds down, stories like Kanté’s remind us of football’s human side. Deschamps faces a pivotal choice—stick rigidly to recent form or reward loyalty and experience. Fans overwhelmingly lean toward the latter. Whether he gets that final dance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Kanté has earned it.