N'Golo Kante was the unlikely star of the show in the absence of a frustrated Kylian Mbappe as France and the Netherlands edged towards the last 16 of Euro 2024 after a 0-0 draw in Leipzig.

Recalled from a two-year international exile, Kante has rolled back the years in Germany with back-to-back man-of-the-match awards to become the fulcrum of Didier Deschamps' midfield once more.

A star of France's World Cup winning team in 2018, Kante's time with Les Bleus appeared spent after he departed Europe to join Saudi side Al-Ittihad 12 months ago.

Injuries had blighted the end of his spell at Chelsea and cost him a place at the World Cup two years ago.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-austria-down-poland-to-close-on-last-16-despite-robert-lewandowskis-late-return-733998">Euro 2024: Austria down Poland to close on last 16 despite Robert Lewandowski's late return</a>

Deschamps' decision to bring back the 33-year-old has proven inspired despite some initial scepticism.

"N'Golo is still out there running," Deschamps quipped in his post-match press conference on Friday. "But he doesn't only run. He also has a capacity to carry the ball up the field, which is important to complement our other players in midfield so we have variety and we are not always predictable."

Questions have been raised over how big European names lured by the riches of the Saudi Pro League would fare when thrust back into the intensity of an international tournament. But Kante has shown that a less demanding Saudi campaign could even be beneficial in comparison to those players worn out by gruelling seasons in Europe's top-five leagues.

"It's important (to make a good impression), especially when you come back to the national team," said Kante.

<h2>Mbappe missed</h2>

As impressive as his ball-winning and boundless energy has been against Austria and the Netherlands, the fact the diminutive midfielder has been France's star so far tells its own story.

The 2022 World Cup finalists have managed just one goal in their opening two games and even that came via Austria defender Maximilian Wober.

Mbappe's broken nose against Austria, which ruled him out on Friday, has not helped.

But more is expected of a forward line that also boasts Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, Marcus Thuram, Ousmane Dembele and Kingsley Coman.

Thankfully for France's hopes of becoming European champions for a third time, Mbappe looks set to be able to return with the aid of a mask.

The Dutch stalemate continued a worrying trend for Deschamps without their star man.

Over the past two years, France have not won any of the seven games that Mbappe has not started.

"Obviously the team is on a different plane when Kylian is in it," added Deschamps.

The France boss conceded his caution with the Real Madrid forward would have been different had it been a knockout game.

The French have been here before under Deschamps and know underwhelming group games are easily forgotten -- as long as they click in time for tougher tests in the knockout stages.

France have reached three finals in their last four major tournaments.

The exception came at Euro 2020 when an out-of-sorts Mbappe failed to score and missed the crucial penalty in a shock last-16 exit to Switzerland.

This time it is injury that threatens to ruin his Euros and France can ill-afford for their masked captain to be under par when he does return.

Despite France having an abundance of talent, Mbappe remains the inspiration to complement Kante's perspiration that would make them the team to beat at Euro 2024.

N'Golo Kante was the unlikely star of the show in the absence of a frustrated Kylian Mbappe as France and the Netherlands edged towards the last 16 of Euro 2024 after a 0-0 draw in Leipzig.

N'Golo Kante was the unlikely star of the show in the absence of a frustrated Kylian Mbappe as France and the Netherlands edged towards the last 16 of Euro 2024 after a 0-0 draw in Leipzig. Recalled from a two-year international exile, Kante has rolled back the years in Germany with back-to-back man-of-the-match awards to become the fulcrum of Didier Deschamps' midfield once more. A star of France's World Cup winning team in 2018, Kante's time with Les Bleus appeared spent after he departed Europe to join Saudi side Al-Ittihad 12 months ago. Injuries had blighted the end of his spell at Chelsea and cost him a place at the World Cup two years ago. ALSO READ: Euro 2024: Austria down Poland to close on last 16 despite Robert Lewandowski's late return Deschamps' decision to bring back the 33-year-old has proven inspired despite some initial scepticism. "N'Golo is still out there running," Deschamps quipped in his post-match press conference on Friday. "But he doesn't only run. He also has a capacity to carry the ball up the field, which is important to complement our other players in midfield so we have variety and we are not always predictable." Questions have been raised over how big European names lured by the riches of the Saudi Pro League would fare when thrust back into the intensity of an international tournament. But Kante has shown that a less demanding Saudi campaign could even be beneficial in comparison to those players worn out by gruelling seasons in Europe's top-five leagues. "It's important (to make a good impression), especially when you come back to the national team," said Kante. Mbappe missed As impressive as his ball-winning and boundless energy has been against Austria and the Netherlands, the fact the diminutive midfielder has been France's star so far tells its own story. The 2022 World Cup finalists have managed just one goal in their opening two games and even that came via Austria defender Maximilian Wober. Mbappe's broken nose against Austria, which ruled him out on Friday, has not helped. But more is expected of a forward line that also boasts Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, Marcus Thuram, Ousmane Dembele and Kingsley Coman. Thankfully for France's hopes of becoming European champions for a third time, Mbappe looks set to be able to return with the aid of a mask. The Dutch stalemate continued a worrying trend for Deschamps without their star man. Over the past two years, France have not won any of the seven games that Mbappe has not started. "Obviously the team is on a different plane when Kylian is in it," added Deschamps. The France boss conceded his caution with the Real Madrid forward would have been different had it been a knockout game. The French have been here before under Deschamps and know underwhelming group games are easily forgotten -- as long as they click in time for tougher tests in the knockout stages. France have reached three finals in their last four major tournaments. The exception came at Euro 2020 when an out-of-sorts Mbappe failed to score and missed the crucial penalty in a shock last-16 exit to Switzerland. This time it is injury that threatens to ruin his Euros and France can ill-afford for their masked captain to be under par when he does return. Despite France having an abundance of talent, Mbappe remains the inspiration to complement Kante's perspiration that would make them the team to beat at Euro 2024.

Kante shines but France share points with Dutch in goalless draw at Euros 2024

France's World Cup-winning midfielder N'Golo Kante has joined Saudi Arabian champions Al Ittihad, the club said in a statement on Wednesday, joining up with compatriot Karim Benzema.

"Kante is an Ittihad player now!" the club said on Twitter, while chairman Anmar al-Hailee tweeted: "Welcome to our new tiger Kante," a reference to the team's nickname.

The 32-year-old becomes the latest in a line of European stars choosing to ply their trade in the desert kingdom, which is making big-money moves across elite sport.

A dynamic and industrious midfielder, Kante won the World Cup with France in 2018.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-paris-2024-headquarters-raided-in-corruption-allegations-606560">Olympics: Paris 2024 headquarters raided in corruption allegations</a>

His club career also glitters. He won the Champions League and World Club Cup with Chelsea, as well as back-to-back Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea.

Kante's contract with the London club was set to expire this month. He has signed a three-year deal with Al Ittihad, the Jeddah-based team said in a statement, though it gave no details of how much Kante will earn.

"Kante's addition to Al-Ittihad is considered one of the most high-profile and impactful signings in the club's history," the statement added.

"It is part of the club's efforts to establish itself as a top choice for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League."

He will wear the number seven shirt, which he also donned at Chelsea.

Current Ballon d'Or holder Benzema joined Al-Ittihad earlier this month, after 14 seasons with Real Madrid in which he won five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles and three Copas del Rey.

<h2>'Very excited'</h2>

In a video posted online by the club, the 35-year-old said in a message to his fellow Frenchman: "One time I told you, you're the best player, box to box, in the world. Now I'm happy to play with you again, and of course in the best team in Saudi."

Kante said he was "very excited to play for the Tigers".

The kingdom's league had already signed up five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in January.

His fellow Portuguese international Ruben Neves, currently of Wolves, is reportedly set to join Al Hilal.

Argentina legend Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest player of all time, declined to make a similar move despite a lengthy Saudi courtship, and will instead join Inter Miami in the United States.

With its oil riches, Saudi Arabia -- a conservative monarchy frequently criticised over its human rights record -- has swiftly achieved a prominent role in world sports.

In football, the presumed goal is hosting the World Cup, which is intended to lift Saudi Arabia's profile and prestige as it tries to diversify its oil-reliant economy by attracting tourists and investors.

In the coming years, Saudi Arabia will organise the men's Asian Cup football, the Olympic-style Asian Games and even the Asian Winter Games in 2029.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the state's sovereign wealth vehicle, holds an 80 percent stake in Newcastle United, who finished fourth in the Premier League last season.

In golf, the PIF has also ruffled feathers. It bankrolls LIV Golf, whose clash with the PGA Tour nearly caused a rupture in the sport.

A surprise merger between the rival tours earlier this month settled a legal battle, only a year after LIV Golf launched with several stars who had jumped from the PGA for big-money offers from the upstart series.

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France's World Cup-winning midfielder N'Golo Kante has joined Saudi Arabian champions Al Ittihad, the club said in a statement on Wednesday, joining up with compatriot Karim Benzema.

France's World Cup-winning midfielder N'Golo Kante has joined Saudi Arabian champions Al Ittihad, the club said in a statement on Wednesday, joining up with compatriot Karim Benzema. "Kante is an Ittihad player now!" the club said on Twitter, while chairman Anmar al-Hailee tweeted: "Welcome to our new tiger Kante," a reference to the team's nickname. The 32-year-old becomes the latest in a line of European stars choosing to ply their trade in the desert kingdom, which is making big-money moves across elite sport. A dynamic and industrious midfielder, Kante won the World Cup with France in 2018. Also Read: Olympics: Paris 2024 headquarters raided in corruption allegations His club career also glitters. He won the Champions League and World Club Cup with Chelsea, as well as back-to-back Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea. Kante's contract with the London club was set to expire this month. He has signed a three-year deal with Al Ittihad, the Jeddah-based team said in a statement, though it gave no details of how much Kante will earn. "Kante's addition to Al-Ittihad is considered one of the most high-profile and impactful signings in the club's history," the statement added. "It is part of the club's efforts to establish itself as a top choice for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League." He will wear the number seven shirt, which he also donned at Chelsea. Current Ballon d'Or holder Benzema joined Al-Ittihad earlier this month, after 14 seasons with Real Madrid in which he won five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles and three Copas del Rey. 'Very excited' In a video posted online by the club, the 35-year-old said in a message to his fellow Frenchman: "One time I told you, you're the best player, box to box, in the world. Now I'm happy to play with you again, and of course in the best team in Saudi." Kante said he was "very excited to play for the Tigers". The kingdom's league had already signed up five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in January. His fellow Portuguese international Ruben Neves, currently of Wolves, is reportedly set to join Al Hilal. Argentina legend Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest player of all time, declined to make a similar move despite a lengthy Saudi courtship, and will instead join Inter Miami in the United States. With its oil riches, Saudi Arabia -- a conservative monarchy frequently criticised over its human rights record -- has swiftly achieved a prominent role in world sports. In football, the presumed goal is hosting the World Cup, which is intended to lift Saudi Arabia's profile and prestige as it tries to diversify its oil-reliant economy by attracting tourists and investors. In the coming years, Saudi Arabia will organise the men's Asian Cup football, the Olympic-style Asian Games and even the Asian Winter Games in 2029. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the state's sovereign wealth vehicle, holds an 80 percent stake in Newcastle United, who finished fourth in the Premier League last season. In golf, the PIF has also ruffled feathers. It bankrolls LIV Golf, whose clash with the PGA Tour nearly caused a rupture in the sport. A surprise merger between the rival tours earlier this month settled a legal battle, only a year after LIV Golf launched with several stars who had jumped from the PGA for big-money offers from the upstart series. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: French mid-fielder N'Golo Kante latest to go Saudi, joins Al Ittihad

Goals in each half from Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic earned defending champions Chelsea a solid 2-0 first-leg victory over Lille in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, but the London side will be concerned about injuries to key players.

Germany forward Havertz, who had already had two attempts on goal early in the game, headed down a Hakim Ziyech corner in the eighth minute and the ball bounced high off the turf into the net.

Chelsea left struggling striker Romelu Lukaku on the bench and it was American Pulisic who hit the second in the 63rd minute with a curling finish after N'Golo Kante's surging run and pinpoint pass.

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The action was at times frenetic as Ligue 1 champions Lille sought to take something from the game into the second leg at home on March 16.

"They played good football and the first half was very difficult for us. Now it is halftime and the next game we have to win as well," Havertz told BT Sport.

The French side, who topped their qualifying group ahead of Salzburg, VfL Wolfsburg and Sevilla, kept Chelsea busy going forward with buzzing runs from Renato Sanches, Benjamin Andre and Jonathan Bamba.

But efforts from all three and from Canadian striker Jonathan David were either blocked, usually by defensive rock Thiago Silva, or collected easily by Edouard Mendy in the Chelsea goal.

Chelsea, who face Liverpool in the League Cup final on Sunday, may be satisfied with their two-goal lead in the tie but they will be concerned for the fitness of pivotal midfielder Mateo Kovacic and of in-form Ziyech who both limped off early in the second half.

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Thomas Tuchel's side are on an exhausting run of games with matches this month played or scheduled in five competitions.

They won the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi 10 days ago and injured trio Ben Chilwell, Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi paraded the trophy round Stamford Bridge before kickoff.

They also won games in the FA Cup and Premier League before Tuesday's game and Sunday's final at Wembley.

"We did not play our best football," Havertz said. "We could not get the aggressiveness of the last few weeks but we won 2-0 and that is the most important thing. Sunday is another competition and we have to focus on that now."

Goals in each half from Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic earned defending champions Chelsea a solid 2-0 first-leg victory over Lille in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, but the London side will be concerned about injuries to key players.

Goals in each half from Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic earned defending champions Chelsea a solid 2-0 first-leg victory over Lille in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, but the London side will be concerned about injuries to key players. Germany forward Havertz, who had already had two attempts on goal early in the game, headed down a Hakim Ziyech corner in the eighth minute and the ball bounced high off the turf into the net. Chelsea left struggling striker Romelu Lukaku on the bench and it was American Pulisic who hit the second in the 63rd minute with a curling finish after N'Golo Kante's surging run and pinpoint pass. ALSO READ: 'It will be physical, it will be emotional': Manchester United coach Ralf Rangnick on battle against Atletico The action was at times frenetic as Ligue 1 champions Lille sought to take something from the game into the second leg at home on March 16. "They played good football and the first half was very difficult for us. Now it is halftime and the next game we have to win as well," Havertz told BT Sport. The French side, who topped their qualifying group ahead of Salzburg, VfL Wolfsburg and Sevilla, kept Chelsea busy going forward with buzzing runs from Renato Sanches, Benjamin Andre and Jonathan Bamba. But efforts from all three and from Canadian striker Jonathan David were either blocked, usually by defensive rock Thiago Silva, or collected easily by Edouard Mendy in the Chelsea goal. Chelsea, who face Liverpool in the League Cup final on Sunday, may be satisfied with their two-goal lead in the tie but they will be concerned for the fitness of pivotal midfielder Mateo Kovacic and of in-form Ziyech who both limped off early in the second half. ALSO READ: Bruno Fernandes responds after fans claim he took a dig Man Utd teammate Harry Maguire in Instagram post Thomas Tuchel's side are on an exhausting run of games with matches this month played or scheduled in five competitions. They won the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi 10 days ago and injured trio Ben Chilwell, Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi paraded the trophy round Stamford Bridge before kickoff. They also won games in the FA Cup and Premier League before Tuesday's game and Sunday's final at Wembley. "We did not play our best football," Havertz said. "We could not get the aggressiveness of the last few weeks but we won 2-0 and that is the most important thing. Sunday is another competition and we have to focus on that now."

Champions League: Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic star as Chelsea beat Lille 2-0

Jorginho will "play through pain" when Chelsea face Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday, with fellow midfielders N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic still unavailable, manager Thomas Tuchel said.

Kante has missed games due to COVID-19 and a groin problem this season and has not played since injuring his knee in a 4-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League in November, while Kovacic is isolating after testing positive for the virus.

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Jorginho missed the 3-3 Champions League draw against Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday due to a niggling back problem but has declared himself fit for the clash against 15th-placed Leeds.

"He did the last two training sessions and I think he will do what he did the last games, play through pain and do what's needed to be on the pitch," Tuchel told reporters on Friday.

Trevoh Chalobah has also been sidelined with injury, forcing Tuchel to play right back Reece James alongside Ross Barkley in the middle of the pitch, but the German manager said Kante was closing in on a return.

"We're always worried when we have to live and play without N'Golo because he's a unique and exceptional player all over the world. This is my personal opinion. You can't find a second N'Golo," Tuchel said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-dutch-star-wants-frenkie-de-jong-to-leave-barcelona-plays-like-he-has-50-kilos-potatoes-on-his-back-435923">Former Dutch star wants Frenkie De Jong to leave Barcelona: 'Plays like he has 50 kilos potatoes on his back'</a>

"Of course, I'm worried, but I'd be worried if he was just missing for a few days. Now, it's too long a break and we hope that he comes back on Tuesday to team training."

Chelsea, who have won only three of their last seven games in all competitions, are third in the Premier League with 33 points from 15 matches.

Jorginho will "play through pain" when Chelsea face Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday, with fellow midfielders N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic still unavailable, manager Thomas Tuchel said.

Jorginho will "play through pain" when Chelsea face Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday, with fellow midfielders N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic still unavailable, manager Thomas Tuchel said. Kante has missed games due to COVID-19 and a groin problem this season and has not played since injuring his knee in a 4-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League in November, while Kovacic is isolating after testing positive for the virus. ALSO READ: ISL 2021-22: Jonathan Cristian stars as Odisha FC beat NorthEast United FC 1-0, jump to second place Jorginho missed the 3-3 Champions League draw against Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday due to a niggling back problem but has declared himself fit for the clash against 15th-placed Leeds. "He did the last two training sessions and I think he will do what he did the last games, play through pain and do what's needed to be on the pitch," Tuchel told reporters on Friday. Trevoh Chalobah has also been sidelined with injury, forcing Tuchel to play right back Reece James alongside Ross Barkley in the middle of the pitch, but the German manager said Kante was closing in on a return. "We're always worried when we have to live and play without N'Golo because he's a unique and exceptional player all over the world. This is my personal opinion. You can't find a second N'Golo," Tuchel said. ALSO READ: Former Dutch star wants Frenkie De Jong to leave Barcelona: 'Plays like he has 50 kilos potatoes on his back' "Of course, I'm worried, but I'd be worried if he was just missing for a few days. Now, it's too long a break and we hope that he comes back on Tuesday to team training." Chelsea, who have won only three of their last seven games in all competitions, are third in the Premier League with 33 points from 15 matches.

Jorginho to 'play through pain' as Kante and Kovacic remain unavailable in Chelsea's midfield crisis

Chelsea star N'Golo Kante's ankle injury worsened during a Premier League clash against Liverpool on Saturday, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old's injury was aggravated following a challenge from Liverpool's Sadio Mane due to which he was substituted at half-time. The midfielder initially picked up the injury in the warm-up ahead of the UEFA Super Cup earlier this month and was not involved in Chelsea's Premier League season opener against Crystal Palace as a precaution.

"He is injured. He missed the Arsenal game because of pain in his ankle and some inflammation, but it was nothing serious obviously because he was back in training and he started (against Liverpool)," Tuchel said.

"In winning the ball in this situation, the opponent fell on his ankle and twisted it again. He immediately had the same pain he had before the Arsenal game and he was lacking the force to accelerate and we had to take him off.

"Can there be any harder challenges than going one man down and taking N'Golo Kante off at the same time at half-time at Anfield and having Liverpool playing towards the Kop? But we did excellently and we are super happy... we deserved the point."

Chelsea are second on the Premier League table as they take on Aston Villa in the Premier League on September 11.

(Inputs from Agency)

Chelsea star N'Golo Kante's ankle injury worsened during a Premier League clash against Liverpool on Saturday, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed. The 30-year-old's injury was aggravated following a challenge from Liverpool's Sadio Mane due to which he was substituted at half-time.

Chelsea star N'Golo Kante's ankle injury worsened during a Premier League clash against Liverpool on Saturday, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed. The 30-year-old's injury was aggravated following a challenge from Liverpool's Sadio Mane due to which he was substituted at half-time. The midfielder initially picked up the injury in the warm-up ahead of the UEFA Super Cup earlier this month and was not involved in Chelsea's Premier League season opener against Crystal Palace as a precaution. "He is injured. He missed the Arsenal game because of pain in his ankle and some inflammation, but it was nothing serious obviously because he was back in training and he started (against Liverpool)," Tuchel said. "In winning the ball in this situation, the opponent fell on his ankle and twisted it again. He immediately had the same pain he had before the Arsenal game and he was lacking the force to accelerate and we had to take him off. "Can there be any harder challenges than going one man down and taking N'Golo Kante off at the same time at half-time at Anfield and having Liverpool playing towards the Kop? But we did excellently and we are super happy... we deserved the point." Chelsea are second on the Premier League table as they take on Aston Villa in the Premier League on September 11. (Inputs from Agency)

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel confirms N'Golo Kante's injury

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14&nbsp;and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3&nbsp;formation.&nbsp;

Coach: Joachim Low

Goalkeeper -

David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Defender -&nbsp;

Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the&nbsp;semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable.&nbsp;

Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team.

Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back.

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad.

<img alt="De Gea.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="770" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/De%20Gea.jpg" width="430" />

Midfielders -&nbsp;

Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His&nbsp;campaign in&nbsp;the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success.

N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding&nbsp;in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign.

James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team.

Forwards -&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was&nbsp;remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup.

Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team.

Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

A collation of dream XI for the football World Cup which will kick off from June 14

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14 and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3 formation. Coach: Joachim Low Goalkeeper - David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Defender - Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable. Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back. Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad. Midfielders - Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His campaign in the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success. N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign. James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team. Forwards - Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup. Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team. Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

With 11 days to go, here is WION's Dream XI for the World Cup

N&#39;Golo Kante&#39;s dynamic performances for double chasing Chelsea received the ultimate accolade from his peers on Sunday, the Professional Footballers&#39; Association (PFA) Player of the Year award.

The 26-year-old French midfielder saw off the likes of Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Everton&#39;s marksman Romelu Lukaku for the prestigious award.

It may well not be the last piece of silverware he lifts this season as unlike his former team-mates at Leicester -- for whom he was the driving force of a stunning title success last year -- he stands on the brink of becoming the first player to win successive league titles with different clubs.

&quot;To be chosen by the players to be player of the year means a lot to me,&quot; said Kante.

&quot;It means the world to be chosen and it&#39;s been two beautiful seasons, one with Leicester, and we are in good form with Chelsea. To be player of the year, it&#39;s a great honour.&quot;

Kante, who also faces an FA Cup final date against Arsenal, said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, like Leicester&#39;s title winning manager Claudio Ranieri an Italian, had instilled a winning mentality into the players.

&quot;He knows what he wants from the players,&quot; said Kante.

&quot;He wants to win, and we work very, very, very hard in training for him. He put a winning mentality into the squad, and everyone wants to give their best for the team, and to make Chelsea win titles.&quot;

Kante, who had a modest playing career in France with Boulogne and then Caen, said the award will not go to his head as he acknowledges they face a tough battle to win either the league or the Cup -- Spurs are just four points behind them in the title race and Arsenal will be desperate to rescue a poor season with a trophy.

&quot;We&#39;re going to fight for both competitions,&quot; said Kante.

&quot;The cup is just one game, and the league six games, and we&#39;re going to give our best to win these two competitions.&quot;

Kante&#39;s performances this season has had former players eulogising about his ability especially after he totally overshadowed his compatriot and the world&#39;s most expensive player Paul Pogba in the 1-0 win over Manchester United in March.

&quot;I&#39;d go as far to say that he&#39;s (Kante) the best central midfield player in the world on current form,&quot; former England and Chelsea great Frank Lampard told the BBC.

&quot;Looking at the way he&#39;s performing this year, he may not be scoring lots of goals but what he&#39;s giving to the team in the way he&#39;s playing, the driving force that he is, I cannot see anyone else out there in world football better than him at the moment.&quot;

Former Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker said he had the potential to be the greatest midfielder of all time if he corrected one facet of his game.

&quot;Bloody hell, if Kante starts scoring goals as well he&#39;ll become the best midfield player ever,&quot; tweeted Lineker&nbsp;

Tottenham Hotspur -- who would relish the title even more after being beaten 4-2 by Chelsea in their FA Cup semi-final on Saturday -- didn&#39;t go away empty-handed.

Their goalscoring midfielder English international Dele Alli, whom many thought should have been a contender for the senior award, won the young player of the year award for the second successive year.

Other winners included Manchester City&#39;s Lucy Bronze who was the women&#39;s player of the year for a second occasion having won it in 2014. Birmingham City&#39;s Jess Carter won the young player of the year award.

English football icon Davd Beckham followed among another former Manchester United team-mate Ryan Giggs in receiving the PFA&#39;s Merit award for his contribution to the game.

(AFP)

The midfielder saw off the likes of Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Everton's marksman Romelu Lukaku for the prestigious award

N'Golo Kante's dynamic performances for double chasing Chelsea received the ultimate accolade from his peers on Sunday, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year award. The 26-year-old French midfielder saw off the likes of Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Everton's marksman Romelu Lukaku for the prestigious award. It may well not be the last piece of silverware he lifts this season as unlike his former team-mates at Leicester -- for whom he was the driving force of a stunning title success last year -- he stands on the brink of becoming the first player to win successive league titles with different clubs. "To be chosen by the players to be player of the year means a lot to me," said Kante. "It means the world to be chosen and it's been two beautiful seasons, one with Leicester, and we are in good form with Chelsea. To be player of the year, it's a great honour." Kante, who also faces an FA Cup final date against Arsenal, said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, like Leicester's title winning manager Claudio Ranieri an Italian, had instilled a winning mentality into the players. "He knows what he wants from the players," said Kante. "He wants to win, and we work very, very, very hard in training for him. He put a winning mentality into the squad, and everyone wants to give their best for the team, and to make Chelsea win titles." Kante, who had a modest playing career in France with Boulogne and then Caen, said the award will not go to his head as he acknowledges they face a tough battle to win either the league or the Cup -- Spurs are just four points behind them in the title race and Arsenal will be desperate to rescue a poor season with a trophy. "We're going to fight for both competitions," said Kante. "The cup is just one game, and the league six games, and we're going to give our best to win these two competitions." Kante's performances this season has had former players eulogising about his ability especially after he totally overshadowed his compatriot and the world's most expensive player Paul Pogba in the 1-0 win over Manchester United in March. "I'd go as far to say that he's (Kante) the best central midfield player in the world on current form," former England and Chelsea great Frank Lampard told the BBC. "Looking at the way he's performing this year, he may not be scoring lots of goals but what he's giving to the team in the way he's playing, the driving force that he is, I cannot see anyone else out there in world football better than him at the moment." Former Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker said he had the potential to be the greatest midfielder of all time if he corrected one facet of his game. "Bloody hell, if Kante starts scoring goals as well he'll become the best midfield player ever," tweeted Lineker Tottenham Hotspur -- who would relish the title even more after being beaten 4-2 by Chelsea in their FA Cup semi-final on Saturday -- didn't go away empty-handed. Their goalscoring midfielder English international Dele Alli, whom many thought should have been a contender for the senior award, won the young player of the year award for the second successive year. Other winners included Manchester City's Lucy Bronze who was the women's player of the year for a second occasion having won it in 2014. Birmingham City's Jess Carter won the young player of the year award. English football icon Davd Beckham followed among another former Manchester United team-mate Ryan Giggs in receiving the PFA's Merit award for his contribution to the game. (AFP)

Premier League: Chelsea's Kante wins player of the year gong

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