France coach Didier Deschamps must decide who occupies the remaining attacking position, with Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, and Desire Doue in contention.
Who are the contenders?
Bradley Barcola has a track record of consistent output at the highest level, scoring 21 goals and 20 assists in 67 matches for PSG in the 2024-25 season.
He brings pace and directness that Cherki and Doue do not quite replicate.
What are their strengths?
Rayan Cherki is perhaps the most naturally gifted of the three, with 11 goals and 16 assists in 52 appearances for Manchester City in all competitions.
Cherki operates best when games are open and he can drift between lines.
Why does it matter for Bradley Barcola?
Bradley Barcola's understanding of the system at club level means he has already developed chemistry with several of his international teammates.
His 2025-26 form was less prolific, scoring 13 times in 48 games, which may count against him.
Deschamps may feel that Barcola is better deployed as an impact player off the bench.
And with Kylian Mbappe leading the line, Ballon D’or holder Ousmane Dembele set to play in the No. 10 role, the competition is fierce.
But Bradley Barcola's experience and pace make him a strong contender for the starting berth.
So the decision will be tough for Deschamps, with each player offering unique qualities.
Bradley Barcola has the advantage of playing alongside Dembele at PSG, which could be a decisive factor.
The World Cup is a tournament where defensive blocks are common and space on the counter-attack is often the best opportunity available, making Barcola's pace valuable.