Zinedine Zidane Set to Reveal France Squad for Nations League Tests
Zinedine Zidane is expected to announce his second France squad on Friday at 6 p.m. Paris time, with the national team preparing for two important UEFA Nations League fixtures against Italy and Turkey. France travel to Milan to meet Italy on 12 November before returning home to face Turkey in Bordeaux on 15 November.
The upcoming selection is likely to look different from the group Zidane named in September. Injuries have ruled out several players, while the expected return of senior figures could strengthen the squad at a crucial point in the competition. With France leading their Nations League group on 10 points, the two matches offer an opportunity to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Injuries Could Force Changes to France’s Football Squad
Ousmane Dembele is among the most notable expected absentees. The forward is reportedly unavailable through injury, leaving Zidane to consider alternative options in attack. Midfielder Manu Kone is also expected to miss the fixtures, while Esteban Lepaul is dealing with an ankle problem.
There are further concerns in defence. Full-back Jules Kounde has not yet fully recovered from a sprain to his left ankle, making his availability uncertain. Maxence Lacroix is also a doubt after suffering a hamstring tear. Zidane will have to assess the latest medical updates before finalising his choices, particularly with two demanding matches scheduled within a short period.
These absences could affect more than just the starting line-up. They may also influence the balance of the bench, the team’s options on the wings and the amount of experience available in defence. France’s depth gives the coach several alternatives, but the Italy match is likely to test how quickly any new combinations can settle.
Mbappe, Tchouameni and Konate Expected Back
France could receive a significant boost from the return of several established players. Kylian Mbappe is expected to be included after missing much of the previous run of matches with an injury to his left knee. His return would give Zidane a proven goal threat and a player capable of changing the tempo of a game with his pace and movement.
Aurelien Tchouameni is also set to return after a lengthy absence at Real Madrid. His presence could add strength and control in midfield, where France will need to compete against technically accomplished opponents. Warren Zaire-Emery is reportedly back from injury, while centre-back Ibrahima Konate is also expected to rejoin the squad.
The potential returnees would give Zidane more flexibility across the pitch. Tchouameni and Zaire-Emery could provide different midfield profiles, while Konate’s availability would help reinforce the defence. Their fitness and match readiness will be important considerations, however, especially as the coach weighs the benefits of restoring key names against the value of maintaining continuity.
Could Florian Thauvin Earn a France Recall?
With attacking places potentially available, attention has turned to several players who could offer Zidane fresh options. According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Lens winger Florian Thauvin is a leading candidate for a recall. His form has strengthened his case: he has reportedly recorded six goals and eight assists in 12 matches this season.
Thauvin’s experience could make him an appealing choice at a time when France may be without Dembele and other forward options. A recall would also give Zidane another wide player capable of creating chances and contributing directly to the scoreline. Whether his club form translates into an international opportunity will be one of the key talking points when the squad is announced.
Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram is another name under consideration. He was absent from Zidane’s first gathering, but remains in contention for the upcoming fixtures. His familiarity with Italian football could be particularly useful ahead of France’s trip to Milan, although selection will depend on the coach’s tactical plans and the fitness of the other forwards.
Young Players May Get Another Opportunity
Zidane could also continue to look towards emerging talent. Tottenham forward Mathys Tel and Bournemouth prospect Eli Junior Kroupi are among the young players who may be considered. A call-up from the youth ranks is also possible, with midfielder Valentin Atangana mentioned as one potential candidate.
The possibility of further debuts would build on Zidane’s approach in his first squad, when he selected five newcomers: goalkeeper Guillaume Restes, defender Jeremy Jacquet, midfielder Andy Diouf, Lucas Da Cunha and forward Esteban Lepaul. While Lepaul is now expected to miss out through injury, the initial selections suggested that Zidane is willing to widen the pool of players available to France.
That approach could benefit the national team over the longer term. Giving younger players exposure to senior international football can help develop depth and provide the coaching staff with more options ahead of future tournaments. At the same time, the upcoming matches carry competitive weight, so any new faces are likely to be assessed alongside their ability to contribute immediately.
France’s Nations League Prediction and What to Watch
France sit top of their group with 10 points, putting them in a strong position before the November fixtures. Two victories would confirm their place in the quarter-finals, although the road ahead is far from straightforward. Italy will provide a difficult test away from home, while Turkey’s visit to Bordeaux will demand another focused performance just three days later.
The main selection questions centre on fitness, attacking depth and how much room Zidane is prepared to give younger players. If Mbappe and the other returning stars are ready, France could regain much of the experience missing from the previous squad. If injuries limit those options, players such as Thauvin, Tel or Kroupi may have a chance to make an early impression.
Any prediction for the two fixtures will depend partly on the final squad and the condition of the returning players. France have the talent to target maximum points, but the coach must balance ambition with caution as he manages a demanding schedule. Friday’s announcement should reveal whether Zidane favours continuity, fresh talent or a blend of both for two matches that could shape France’s Nations League campaign.
