N’Golo Kante primed for Jurgen Klopp link-up after shock France return

Chelsea legend N’Golo Kante is a surprise inclusion in France’s latest squad amid rumours of a return to the European scene with Red Bull-owned Paris FC.

The 34-year-old is still going strong despite spending the past two-and-a-half years in Saudi Arabia with reigning Pro League champions Al-Ittihad. Kante unexpectedly left Chelsea on a free transfer in 2023 to head to the Middle East.

Unlike other international managers who ignore players based in Saudi Arabia, France boss Didier Deschamps has continued to keep tabs on the 2018 World Cup winner.

Kante was a shock inclusion in France’s Euro 2024 squad last year, and he was arguably Les Bleus’ most consistent performer at the tournament in Germany, prompting some Premier League clubs to explore a move for him.

He opted to stay in Jeddah, but his contract at Al-Ittihad is up in the summer. It was recently revealed that nouveau riche Paris FC, now owned by the billionaire Arnault family and Red Bull, are interested in signing him on a free transfer in 2026.

Kante returns to France squad

At this stage, it is too early to say if Kante will return to Europe to link up with Red Bull chief Jurgen Klopp in Paris next year or if he will stay in Saudi Arabia, where he also has suitors. However, France boss Deschamps clearly thinks that the veteran midfielder still has an awful lot to give.

As such, he has once again called him up for his country as France look to book their ticket to the World Cup with matches against Ukraine and Azerbaijan. It is his first call-up since the Euros.

“He is at his best level,” Deschamps insisted when asked to explain his decision. “He is playing matches every three to four days, with the Asian Champions League. He is always available for selection.

“The proof is that he is here. Of course, he has a status and experience. When he is called up, he is here to play an important role. He is always in mind. With the technical staff, we follow him regularly. He always loves to wear the shirt.”

Despite Kante’s form, Al-Ittihad are well off the pace in the Saudi Pro League. They are only eighth, 10 points off league leaders Al-Nassr, and will face reigning Asian champions Al-Ahli on Saturday evening. In the Champions League, Al-Ittihad are currently sixth (out of 12) in Group B.

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