France
France arrive as 2018 champions, 2022 finalists, and 2024 European semi-finalists — the most consistent elite force of the past decade. Didier Deschamps, after twelve years in charge, is reportedly heading toward a final tournament with Les Bleus. The squad is still anchored by Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid), now in his prime; Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid) and Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid) form a generational midfield; Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) provides width; William Saliba (Arsenal) and Dayot Upamecano (Bayern) lead the back. France's depth is unmatched — even injuries are absorbed without crisis. Group I with Senegal, Norway and Iraq is dangerous, particularly Norway with Haaland, but France should clinch first. The brief is straightforward: a third title in three cycles.