Zinédine Zidane has begun his France reign with a clear break from familiar habits, leaving several established internationals out of his first 23-man squad for four Nations League matches in September and October.
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The new France coach has selected five uncapped players, while a number of regular members of the previous set-up have been omitted following the change from Didier Deschamps.
Brice Samba, who served as France’s second-choice goalkeeper at the World Cup, is not included. Lucas Hernandez also misses out, despite being one of Deschamps’ trusted senior figures.
Lucas Digne, Wesley Fofana, Lens defender Matthieu Udol and Malo Gusto have also been left outside the group.
In midfield, N’Golo Kanté’s international future is in doubt. The 35-year-old has not been called up, raising the possibility that his long France career could be over.
Aurélien Tchouaméni is another major absence, although Zidane stressed that the Real Madrid midfielder needs more recovery time after being sidelined for close to two months.
“Aurélien has been out for almost two months,” Zidane said. “For his recovery, it was better that he stayed in Madrid. We have four important matches, and I believe remaining there to continue his preparation was the right decision for him.”
Mattéo Guendouzi, Boubacar Kamara, Enzo Le Fée, Pablo Pagis and Khéphren Thuram were not selected in midfield either.
The forward line has also changed significantly. Maghnes Akliouche, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Senny Mayulu and Marcus Thuram will not feature during this international window.
September and October Nations League schedule
Zidane’s first squad will cover four Nations League fixtures across September and October. His opening selection contains 23 players, including five newcomers, as France begin a new chapter under their new manager.
