World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano
Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano is set to shine for France at this summer's FIFA World Cup on the back of another impressive campaign at club level.
Name: Dayot Upamecano
Club: Bayern Munich
Nation: France
International debut: 5 September 2020
Caps: 36
International goals: 2
Stats correct as of 16 May 2026
How was his 2025/26 season?
Upamecano has been a key member of Vincent Kompany's back four as Bayern close in on the double. The Bavarians' only league defeat of the season, which came against Augsburg, was notable for Upamecano's absence, while 18 of Bayern's 35 goals conceded in the top flight have come in the 10 fixtures in which the former RB Leipzig man has played no part. Having signed a new contract in February until 2030, he is set to command the last line of defence for many more years to come.
Watch: Upamecano signs Bayern contract extension
What does he bring to the national team?
Since the 2022 World Cup, Upamecano has been a regular feature in France's backline, starting all but two games as Les Bleus reached the final in Qatar before playing every minute of their run to the semi-finals at UEFA Euro 2024. Strong, fast, and comfortable with the ball at his feet, he is now the leader at the back alongside younger defensive partner William Saliba.
What his coaches say
“He’s always been a leader for me, and he’s becoming more and more so. He’s shown the most development on the ball. He’s very progressive in his game and plays forward. Upa is a player who can develop into one of the best defenders in the world. There are some more steps he needs to take, and we’re taking them together.” - Kompany
"We are very happy to be able to count on him because, I repeat, he is one of the very best defenders, and France are stronger with him.” - France head coach Didier Deschamps
