Monday 1 February 2016 17:15, UK
The only way is up for Les Bleus following the abysmal four-year reign of Philippe Saint-Andre.
France have failed to finish higher than fourth in the last four Six Nations and it remains to be seen whether Guy Noves can lift them out of their slump.
Head coach: Guy Noves
Captain: Guilhem Guirado
Last year: 4th
Strengths: France's pack can mix it with the best, provided they're in the mood. Noves has freshened things up by selecting eight uncapped players, including Stade Francais' talented centre Jonathan Danty.
Weaknesses: France are at a low ebb following their World Cup humiliation and the scars of that 62-13 hiding against New Zealand could take some time to heal. Saint Andre failed to cement a half-back combination and the absence of Francois Trinh-Duc and Morgan Parra suggests it could also be a problem for his successor.
Who we will love: Virimi Vakatawa is a star on the Sevens circuit and it will be interesting to see if he can make as big an impact in the 15-man international game. The Fiji-born 23-year-old is an explosive runner with a great fend and sidestep, and is also a fierce tackler.
Who will split opinion: Gael Fickou and Wesley Fofana are being touted as a potential centre combination, although the latter will miss Saturday's opener against Italy. There is no questioning their talent but consistency remains an issue for both players.
MVP: Guilhem Guirado has been handed the captaincy and faces the unenviable task of filling the shoes of Thierry Dusautoir. The hooker is accustomed to working in a pressured environment at Toulon, where immediate success is demanded, and must try to instil that philosophy in the national side.
The big debate: Noves' powers had been on the wane for some time before he departed Toulouse at the end of last season. Can he still cut the mustard at the highest level?
