At 34 years old, Jonathan Clauss has clearly not said his last word. Since the start of the 2026-2027 season, the OGC Nice piston has displayed a particularly interesting face and has established itself as an essential element of its team. With nine matches played, two goals and two assists in all competitions, the former Marseillais regains influence in the Nice game, like his new XXL performance, this Friday evening, against Stade Rennais (5-2). His consistency, his activity on the right side and his ability to project himself forward once again make him one of the players to watch in the Riviera squad.
This good dynamic comes at a particularly interesting time for the French defender. Indeed, Zinédine Zidane is preparing to unveil his second list at the head of the France team, on November 6. The Blues will then face Italy on November 12, then Turkey on November 15, as part of the Nations League. After having largely renewed his group during his first gathering, the new coach could still have a few surprises in store. And why not look towards the Côte d’Azur?
A great start to the season
In terms of profile, Jonathan Clauss has several arguments to seduce the French technician. His quality as a center, his offensive projection, his volume of play and his international experience constitute interesting assets. The former Lensois already has 14 selections with the Blues, even if he has not been called up since September 2024. Furthermore, the first tactical orientations of Zidane, who particularly wishes to see his full-backs evolve very high on the pitch, could correspond to the natural qualities of the Niçois. An element which could work in his favor if the coach seeks to strengthen competition on the sides. The poor form of Pierre Kalulu, criticized in Italy for his start to the season with Juve, could give weight to his candidacy, as could the benching of Malo Gusto at Chelsea.
Image generation in progress
It now remains to be seen whether this great start to the season will be enough to convince Zinédine Zidane. At 34, Clauss knows that time is against him in a selection that also wants to prepare for the future. But his experience and current performance can allow him to defend his candidacy. In a new era where statuses seem less important and where the doors of Clairefontaine are open to new profiles, the Nice full-back perhaps has one last good card to play. The meeting on November 6 could therefore be particularly anticipated for him.
