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Who can stop France? Arsene Wenger believes there is just one team capable of denying Kylian Mbappe and his teammates another World Cup triumph.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has made his bold prediction for the closing stages of the World Cup, backing France to retain the title. Currently serving as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Wenger asserted that Didier Deschamps’ squad appears unstoppable, identifying only one European giant with the tactical capacity to derail Les Bleus’ momentum.

Wenger backs Les Bleus

According to Wenger, the French national side look set to reclaim the world crown this year after their dominant performances spearheaded by Mbappe and company. Deschamps’ men have been in formidable form throughout their first five matches, ahead of their quarter-final encounter with Morocco at the Gillette Stadium in Boston. Wenger argues that the French team possess exceptional pace and rhythm, making them nearly impossible for rivals to challenge effectively.

French legend predicts tournament success

The 76-year-old former Arsenal boss shared his detailed assessment as a guest on Felix and Toni Kroos’ podcast. Wenger clarified that his forecast is grounded in technical analysis rather than national loyalty, stating that his confidence stems from the team’s on-field superiority.

He remarked: "France will win the World Cup. I know people will say it's because I'm French. But if you analyse the tournament carefully, you can see that the train is moving at a certain speed right now. And you must be capable of getting on that train."

Spain seen as the main tactical threat

Although several European teams have reached the quarter-finals, Wenger dismissed England’s chances and suggested that Morocco and Argentina would find it tough to overcome the defending champions. In his estimation, only Luis de la Fuente’s Spain possess the tactical intelligence and collective cohesion to seriously challenge France.

Wenger explained: "For me, the real question mark is Spain. If any side can defeat France at this point, it would be Spain. They have a higher technical standard than France. Their sense of collective play and teamwork excellence is unmatched in the world right now. At this level, no other team matches their unity. So, in my view, it’s between those two. However, France remain physically stronger."

Heavyweights battle for semi-final places

France now face a demanding physical and mental test as they prepare to meet Morocco, a side eager to avenge their 2022 semi-final loss. If they advance, a potential clash with Spain’s emerging golden generation—featuring talents like Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal—could await. Given the impressive form of both squads, consistency and squad depth will likely determine who ultimately lifts the world’s most coveted football trophy.