France have the uncanny ability to produce generation after generation of world-class footballers.
The two-time world champions have boasted truly elite players over the years, with legendary figures donning the blue of the French national team in every position on the pitch. Many of the country’s most gifted footballers have inspired supporters across the globe.
With a hell of a lot to choose from, here are the 25 best players to have represented France.
Named French Footballer of the Year in 1999 in the same year as his first international cap, Sylvain Wiltord finished his career eight appearances shy of a century for Les Bleus.
The dynamic winger just missed out on World Cup glory in 1998 but did help his country triumph at the Euros in 2000. He netted the strike that took the final to extra-time against Italy in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
Jean Tigana also knew what it meant to be a European champion, helping France to their first major international trophy in 1984. A relentless runner, the Bordeaux icon made up a devastating midfield for Les Bleus at the tournament and proved crucial to their success.
Known for his excellent distribution, Tigana only ever managed one goal for France but was a major participant during a sensational era.
Wiltord produced the goal that sent Euro 2000 to extra time but David Trezeguet scored the winner. With 103 minutes on the clock, the forward decided the showpiece event by volleying home the all-important golden goal.
That was undeniably his peak at international level, although the Juventus legend did win the World Cup in 1998 as well. Having said that, his penalty miss in the 2006 World Cup final shootout against Italy proved decisive.
Despite making 97 appearances for France over an interrupted 15-year spell, there’s still a sense of ‘what if’ about Karim Benzema’s international career. A very tumultuous relationship with the French Football Federation (FFF) limited his influence on the big stage, with the former Real Madrid forward unable to claim major silverware for his country.
The best he could manage was the UEFA Nations League in 2021 and a World Cup final appearance in 2022, but in terms of pure ability, not many…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at 90min EN…