First for Jacquet, Da Cunha, Diouf, Lepaul and Restes, return for Truffert, Zinedine Zidane did not go easy on the new features for his first list of the French team. A real breath of fresh air, generally welcomed by supporters according to the first reactions on social networks. But if the new coach has made people happy, there are some who will not have the heart to laugh this Friday evening. We think, for example, of the two left-backs called up by Didier Deschamps during the last 2026 World Cup, Theo Hernandez And Lucas Digne. Neither made the list, just like Lucas Hernandezwho has often benefited from his versatility. Matthew Udol also hoped to participate in this new adventure but was not taken.
William Saliba’s absence was automatic due to his back injury, which leaves him on the flank, but players like Wesley Fofana could hope to join the selection. In the goals, the main victim is called Brice Sambato which Toulouse Remains was preferred. “And why not Guillaume Restes? It’s a thoughtful, assumed choice. We’re going to do with these three goalkeepers. With Fabien (Barthez), we have the same vision of what a goalkeeper is. He has the experience. He’s been there. We speak the same football”justified ZZ.
Tchouameni penalized by his physical condition, Tolisso still not caught
In the middle, the big absentee is called Aurélien Tchouameni. A choice which can be explained by the physical condition of the player, not yet back to 100%. Zidane sent this message: “for his recovery process it is best that he stays in Madrid. We have 4 important matches. It’s better for him to prepare.” Tchouameni will therefore have every chance of returning to Blue for the international break in November. Which does not seem to be the case N’Golo Kantéput aside, probably permanently. “He contributed to the French team, I didn’t have the chance to coach him but N’Golo is 35 years old and I have 4 years at the head of the team, I hope so (laughs), and I have to make choices”slipped ZZ. Already ignored by Didier Deschamps, Corentin Tolisso is no more successful with his successor. We can add Mattéo Guendouzi, Boubacar KamaraAnd Khafre Thuramamong the disappointed potentials.
In attack, the latitude seemed limited given the masterful CVs that make up this sector. But Zizou still brought something new with Estéban Lepaul. Main victim of this choice, Marcus Thuramwho did not do poorly with Inter Milan. Thuram is therefore not part of the colony of 6 players playing in Serie A. The other notable absentee is called Maghnes Akliouchepresent at the World Cup, and regular starter with PSG since the start of the season. His technical player profile seemed to please the new coach, but the latter favored a list of 23 players, which forced him to limit his offensive options. Randal Kolo Muani is not making a comeback in Blue either, while Jean-Philippe Mateta is injured.
