 On 17 May 2018, he was called up to the 23-man French squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.On 15 July, Matuidi started in France's 4–2 victory against Croatia in the final of the tournament.Described as a "fierce and strong tackler", with good defensive attributes, Matuidi is known in particular for his energy, work-rate, mobility, tenacity, and physical strength, as well as his discipline, positional sense, and tactical intelligence, which enable him to excel in a holding role as a ball-winner in midfield, due to his ability to close down spaces, intercept loose balls, or break down possession.