From fourth tier to World Cup: RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser shocks everyone with France selection
Robin Risser, named Ligue 1's best goalkeeper in his debut season at the top level with RC Lens, has been included in France's World Cup squad for the 2026 tournament by coach Didier Deschamps. The 21-year-old Alsatian, who was still playing in the fourth division in 2024, grabbed a last-minute spot on the plane to the United States and has written a remarkable story.
From National to the biggest stage in the world
It's a journey few thought possible. Robin Risser, RC Lens's goalkeeper, has joined the wider French World Cup family as a late addition. The 21-year-old keeper capitalized on a difficult period for Lucas Chevalier at Paris Saint-Germain and seized his opportunity with both hands. That Didier Deschamps would select a player never previously capped seemed unlikely at first—his assistant Guy Stéphan had suggested as much—but Risser broke through all expectations and secured a place on the plane to the United States at the eleventh hour.
Ligue 1's best goalkeeper in his debut season
The reward for an exceptional first season at the top level is now a reality. Risser crowned his Ligue 1 debut campaign by being voted the championship's best goalkeeper. He was one of the key architects behind RC Lens's success, as they finished second behind Paris Saint-Germain and won the Coupe de France. Those achievements make the speed of his rise even more striking: in 2024, the Alsatian was still keeping goal in the fourth tier, and between 2017 and 2019 he came through Nancy's academy program. Those who have watched him closely say they are not surprised. For the rest of the world, however, Robin Risser's story is something to marvel at.
Reserve role at the World Cup, but Deschamps is preparing him for the future
As France's third-choice goalkeeper, Risser will likely spend the entire 2026 World Cup on the bench. Yet his call-up carries significance that extends beyond this tournament. Deschamps is deliberately bringing him along with an eye to the future, to help the young keeper acclimatize to the highest level of international football. For a player who was plying his trade in the fourth division just over a year ago, stepping into a World Cup squad represents a remarkable leap—and possibly just the beginning of an international career.
Related
Source: Via Ouest-France (GNews)
Comments
- Be the first to comment.