French back-up Samba has seized the opportunity of the 2026 World Cup after a career revival

France goalkeeper Brice Samba will realize his World Cup dream at the age of 32 after a career he describes as “a series of highs, lows and then highs again”.

The Rennes goalkeeper will travel to North America as France’s back-up behind Mike Maignan.

«Just a childhood dream,» Samba said AFP. «Because it is the pinnacle of football, a World Cup. I am very proud that I can participate with a country like France.»

Samba made his debut for Le Havre in the French Cup in 2012 before moving to Marseille at the end of the season. At 18, he was signed as a deputy to Steve Mandanda, despite having little senior experience.

“At 18, Marseille came looking for me as Steve Mandanda’s number two, without any professional experience,” he said. “But I got too big for my boots and everyone caught up with me.”

Samba made just a handful of appearances in four seasons at Marseille before moving to Caen, where he became a regular starter. He then spent three seasons in England with Nottingham Forest before returning to Ligue 1 with Lens, where his performances caught the attention of French coach Didier Deschamps. He later joined Rennes.

“Everyone grows up in their own time,” Samba said.

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The goalkeeper was first called up by France in 2023 and won his first cap in June that year at the age of 29. He said he had previously been approached by Congo but always believed he could play for France.

«When I was younger, I was approached by the Congo national team. But I always believed that I could reach the French national team thanks to my qualities and what I could do on the pitch,» he said.

Samba knows he can watch the World Cup from the bench, with Maignan expected to be France’s number one goalkeeper. But he said he understood his role in the team.

“I’ll be there when they call me,” he said. “I know the role I have to play in this group: supporting Mike, helping him and pushing him to perform.”

Samba said he was determined to make the most of what could be his only World Cup.

«I hate to have regrets. That’s why I’m doing everything I can to make sure everything goes well. Knowing that this is my first World Cup and possibly my last, I’m going to do everything I can.»

Published on June 6, 2026