Zinedine Zidane has published the second list of players called up for the France national team, ahead of two decisive UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey. The most notable novelty is striker Pablo Pagis, who receives his first call-up to the senior France team.
France’s squad comes at a delicate moment due to injury-related absences and the suspension of Dayot Upamecano, which force Zinedine Zidane to make difficult choices in several positions. For this gathering, Zidane will not be able to count on William Saliba, Jules Kounde, Maxence Lacroix, Manu Kone, Ousmane Dembele and Esteban Lepaul.
Dayot Upamecano will also not travel to Italy as he is suspended. To cover Kounde’s absence, Malo Gusto has been called up. Aurelien Tchouameni returns to the squad, while Andy Diouf, Jeremy Jacquet and Lucas Da Cunha have also received call-ups.
In attack, Zidane will rely on Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, while Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue and Marcus Thuram, who returns to the national team, are also available. France lead the group with 10 points, followed by Italy with seven and Belgium with six, while Turkey close the standings without a point.
The first match will be on November 12 in Milan against Italy, while on November 15 France will host Turkey at home. To secure a place in the quarterfinals, the French would only need a draw against the Italians. The full list of the squad by position: Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan, Guillaume Restes, Robin Risser.
Defenders: Andy Diouf, Malo Gusto, Jeremy Jacquet, Pierre Kalulu, Ibrahima Konate, Adrien Truffert, Dayot Upamecano, Leny Yoro. Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Rayan Cherki, Lucas Da Cunha, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery. Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Pablo Pagis, Marcus Thuram.