[ 2024 European Cup French] Winning the championship is the sole objective of the French team!

France is a traditional powerhouse in European and global football, having won the FIFA World Cup twice in 1998 and 2018, as well as the UEFA European Championship twice in 1984 and 2000. In 2016, they reached the final of the UEFA European Championship held on home soil but narrowly lost to Portugal led by Cristiano Ronaldo. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, France reached the final again as defending champions but were defeated in a penalty shootout by Lionel Messi's Argentina, finishing as runners-up once more.

With a squad value exceeding €1 billion, France boasts one of the most valuable national teams globally. In the preceding qualifiers, France was grouped with the Netherlands, Greece, Ireland, and Gibraltar. They comfortably topped the group with 7 wins and 1 draw out of 8 matches, securing their place in the main tournament.

Despite the presence of top-tier stars like Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong, the Netherlands still faces a formidable challenge against France. The French team not only features a luxurious lineup but also strikes a balance between experienced veterans like Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud and rising stars like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.

In midfield, they boast talents like Karim Benzema, who achieved numerous honors with Real Madrid, and the 17-year-old prodigy Zayn Emery from Paris Saint-Germain. Although Mbappe didn't lead Paris Saint-Germain to the coveted UEFA Champions League title this season, his goal-scoring prowess remained impressive, setting a new career high.

It's worth noting that while France's squad strength is undeniable, their conservative tactical approach under Didier Deschamps has drawn criticism. Following their World Cup triumph in 2018, France's tactics remained largely unchanged, relying on a defensive counter-attacking style. Nevertheless, with their current talent pool, aiming for the championship is their sole objective.

Since taking over as head coach in July 2012, Deschamps has revitalized the French national team, drawing on his own tenacity and pragmatism as a player. His practical approach has led to consistent success, as evidenced by reaching the final of the last two FIFA World Cups.

France's squad is packed with talent, particularly along the spine. Upfront, the evergreen Giroud remains a trusted figure. Despite being 37 years old, his pivotal role remains irreplaceable. This season in Serie A, Giroud contributed 14 goals and 8 assists in 32 appearances, leading the team's scoring charts.

Mbappe's individual brilliance is unquestionable, making him the most valuable player in today's football market. Despite speculation about his departure, he still managed to deliver impressive numbers this season, even after Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League disappointment.

France possesses several physically gifted players, but cerebral assets like Griezmann are invaluable. Another key figure is Adrien Rabiot, whose versatility in midfield enriches France's attacking options. Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy and Corentin Tolisso are also versatile assets, with Mendy even being developed as a central defender due to Real Madrid's injury woes. As for Tolisso, the 21-year-old already exudes leadership qualities alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, potentially serving as a breakthrough weapon when needed.