France return to the Stade de France on Friday with Italy awaiting in the Nations League, and Zinédine Zidane has hinted at another night of selection twists rather than a settled first-choice XI.
The France coach admitted on Thursday that the occasion would carry personal emotion, but he offered little detail on his tactical plan. What is clear is that Zidane is prepared to keep rotating after making nine changes between the 1-0 win in Turkey and the 1-0 victory in Belgium.
With his entire squad available, Zidane has again stressed that he does not see the group as divided between automatic starters and reserves. That approach could bring Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise into the side after both began the Belgium match on the bench.
Attacking experience could return
Dembélé and Olise are among the senior attacking options expected to push for places from the opening whistle against Italy. Their possible recalls would give France greater pace and invention in the final third for a match that could shape the next phase of their Nations League campaign.
Zidane has been encouraged by the contribution of his wider group across the two recent 1-0 wins. Rather than naming an established side, he has used the international window to test combinations and distribute responsibility through the squad.
Midfield and defence still open
The biggest uncertainty remains in midfield. Zidane kept his intentions unclear during Thursday’s work, although Manu Koné was used as a more advanced central midfielder. There is also a possibility that Da Cunha could be given another look, at least during part of the game.
At centre-back, Dayot Upamecano’s partner has yet to be confirmed. Leny Yoro trained alongside the Bayern Munich defender on Thursday, but Jacquet has also made a strong case to feature again after his recent showing.
France could also use the next two fixtures to rotate their goalkeepers. Guillaume Restes is in contention to receive an opportunity, with Friday’s meeting against Italy a possible moment for the goalkeeper to step in.
For Zidane, the balance will be between emotion and experimentation under the lights in Saint-Denis. France have won their last two matches by a single goal, but the visit of Italy may reveal which of the coach’s many options is ready to become more than a rotation choice.
