In 2018, France’s national soccer team, known as the Équipe Tricolore, celebrated victory at the FIFA World Cup held in Russia. However, the journey following that triumph has been fraught with controversy and unexpected career changes for several key players.
Scandals Impacting the 2018 World Cup Team
Paul Pogba’s Decline
Once a celebrated star, Paul Pogba faced a dramatic decline after the 2018 World Cup. The talented midfielder, who scored in the finals against Croatia, saw his life take a tumultuous turn marked by injuries and personal strife. After returning to Juventus, he battled physical issues and was embroiled in a shocking blackmail scandal involving his brother Mathias Pogba. Despite his denial of doping intentions, a 2023 test revealed the presence of a banned substance, leading to an 18-month suspension after an initial four-year ban. Pogba’s contract with Juventus was terminated, and he made a brief stint at AS Monaco, where playing time dwindled to just 115 minutes last season.
Benjamin Mendy’s Legal Battles
Benjamin Mendy’s trajectory shifted dramatically following allegations of sexual offenses in 2021. Though acquitted, the left-back struggled to rehabilitate his image. His attempts to return to top-flight football were met with challenges, and his market value plummeted from €57.5 million to approximately €400,000. Most recently, he played for Pogon Szczecin in Poland, with his contract expiring in June.
Off-Field Controversies
Adil Rami, although an unfavored fourth center-back during the World Cup, made headlines for his tumultuous relationship with actress Pamela Anderson. After allegations of abuse emerged, Rami focused on reality television, and his contract with Marseille was terminated for unprofessional conduct, linked to prioritizing film commitments over training.
Physical Challenges and Career Setbacks
Samuel Umtiti’s Early Retirement
Samuel Umtiti’s career was severely impacted by knee injuries sustained during the 2018 tournament. Although he played a pivotal role in France’s victory, his decision to compete while injured led to chronic knee problems. Umtiti retired at just 31, expressing feelings of loneliness and depression following his career’s end.
Nabil Fekir’s Stalled Potential
Once viewed as a rising star, Nabil Fekir never fully realized his potential post-2018. Although he played in the World Cup, persistent injuries and setbacks derailed his move to Liverpool, which subsequently fell through. Currently, he plays for Al-Jazira in Dubai, struggling to regain the form that once excited fans.
Presnel Kimpembe’s Injury Struggles
Presnel Kimpembe faced a protracted battle against Achilles tendon injuries that sidelined him for nearly two years. Moving to Qatar in 2025, Kimpembe transitioned from a rising star to a substitute player, highlighting the fragility of an athlete’s career.
Thomas Lemar’s Unfulfilled Promise
Thomas Lemar’s move to Atlético Madrid in 2018 brought high expectations, yet injuries marred his career. A severe Achilles injury in 2023 further hindered his progress, culminating in a loan to Girona, where the team faced relegation.
Success Stories and Resilience
Kylian Mbappé: The Unfinished Journey
Kylian Mbappé, a standout player of his generation, secured his first World Cup title at just 19. Despite remarkable performances, including a hat trick in the 2022 final, he has yet to capture the Ballon d’Or. His move to Real Madrid in 2024 promised new opportunities, yet he continues to chase a Champions League title with the club.
Ousmane Dembélé’s Remarkable Resilience
Once often sidelined due to injuries, Ousmane Dembélé experienced a career revival in his late 20s. He played a pivotal role in guiding Paris Saint-Germain to multiple Champions League titles and won the Ballon d’Or in 2025, transforming public perception from a promising talent to a world-class player.
Antoine Griezmann’s Continued Impact
Antoine Griezmann solidified his status in French soccer, guiding the national team to another World Cup final in 2022. His intelligence on the field has made him an invaluable asset to the Équipe Tricolore.
Olivier Giroud’s Historic Achievement
Despite not scoring in the 2018 World Cup, Olivier Giroud became France’s all-time top scorer, surpassing Thierry Henry. His journey underscores the varying paths taken by the 2018 World Cup squad members.
Looking Ahead
France remains a strong contender in upcoming international competitions, especially with many 2018 World Cup champions still in the mix. The importance of unity among players will be crucial as they seek to replicate past successes.
