Thierry Henry has named France as his favourites to win the World Cup this summer.
Didier Deschamps guided France to victory in the 2018 World Cup but his side were unable to retain the trophy four years later in Qatar as they were beaten by Argentina in a thrilling final.
Henry, who won the World Cup with France in 1998, believes Deschamps has a ‘huge advantage’ this summer due to the depth of his squad.
France begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16 beforefacing Iraq and Norway in Group I.
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‘I see France as the top contender – partly because I’m French, but also because we’ve reached the last two finals,’ Henry told Sports Illustrated.
‘We have a strong team. Spain, Argentina, Portugal, and England are also promising candidates. Surprises like Norway or Senegal are possible.
‘As for Germany, I’m waiting for them to rediscover their best form.
‘Germany has qualified, and that’s the most important thing. Sometimes you can even play better with less pressure. In any case, I wish Julian Nagelsmann and his team all the best – unless they play against France. ‘
Asked to name France’s best strength, Henry replied: ‘On the bench.
‘It sounds simple, but squad depth is crucial. If your substitutes are on par with the starting eleven, it’s a huge advantage, especially in such a long tournament after an intense season.’
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