France Suffer Another Injury Setback Ahead of Nations League Tests
France have been dealt another defensive blow ahead of their decisive UEFA Nations League fixtures, with Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury. The latest withdrawal adds to an already lengthy list of absentees for coach Zinedine Zidane, who must now reshape his squad before France face Italy and Turkey.
Kalulu picked up the injury during Juventus’ 2-2 Serie A draw with Fiorentina. According to Foot Mercato, the problem affects his left hamstring, and the defender will remain in Turin to receive treatment. He had been selected for the international break but will miss both of France’s upcoming matches.
Kalulu’s Injury Adds to France’s Defensive Concerns
The timing is far from ideal for France. Kalulu’s versatility and experience at club level made him a useful option for a squad already stretched by injuries and other absences. His withdrawal leaves Zidane with fewer choices as he prepares for two demanding fixtures that could shape France’s position in the Nations League group.
Several prominent players are already unavailable. Arsenal defender William Saliba, Barcelona’s Jules Koundé and Chelsea’s Maxence Lacroix are among those sidelined through injury, while Roma midfielder Manu Koné, Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé and Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul are also missing from the current camp.
France must also manage the absence of Dayot Upamecano, who is suspended for the meeting with Italy. With multiple defenders unavailable at once, the coaching staff face the challenge of balancing defensive solidity with the attacking ambition expected from a team competing for top spot.
Saël Kumbedi Receives a Call-Up
To cover Kalulu’s place, the French Football Federation has called up Saël Kumbedi. The Wolfsburg player, formerly of Olympique Lyonnais, now has an opportunity to join the senior squad and demonstrate what he can offer at international level.
Kumbedi’s inclusion gives Zidane an additional option in defence, but the call-up also underlines the scale of the disruption. New arrivals may need to adapt quickly to the team’s tactics, training routines and expectations, especially with little time before France’s first match. For a young player, that can be both a demanding test and a significant chance to make an impression.
France’s defensive setup will be closely watched as the squad adjusts. The coaching staff may need to consider combinations that have had limited time together, while weighing each player’s club form, fitness and ability to handle the pressure of high-stakes international football. The injury situation could also influence how aggressively France press and how much protection the midfield provides to the back line.
Two Important Matches in the Nations League
France are scheduled to face Italy on Thursday, November 13, before taking on Turkey on Sunday, November 16. Both fixtures carry considerable weight as the team pursues first place in its group and a place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
The Italy match is a particularly demanding opening test. The sides are familiar rivals, and their meetings are often shaped by tactical discipline, physical duels and small margins. France will need to stay organised at the back while finding ways to create chances against a team capable of punishing mistakes.
The following game against Turkey brings a different challenge. Turkey’s intensity and ability to attack quickly can make them difficult opponents, particularly if France are still adjusting to changes in personnel. Managing the two matches in quick succession will require careful attention to fitness, substitutions and recovery.
France Prediction: Can Zidane Overcome the Absences?
Any France football prediction for this international break must account for the number of missing players. On paper, France have the depth and quality to compete with both Italy and Turkey. However, injuries across several areas of the squad could make consistency harder to achieve, especially if replacement players are asked to take on unfamiliar roles.
France’s best route to success may be a controlled start, disciplined defending and efficient use of their attacking opportunities. Rather than relying solely on individual brilliance, Zidane’s side may need to show patience and keep the team compact when possession is lost. Strong performances from the available midfielders could be crucial in shielding the defence and helping France dictate the tempo.
There are also potential positives in the situation. Kumbedi and other players brought into the squad have a chance to prove themselves, while established members of the team can take on greater responsibility. International breaks often create opportunities for emerging talent, and a composed performance from a newcomer could give the coaching staff an extra option beyond these two fixtures.
A Test of Squad Depth and Adaptability
Kalulu’s hamstring problem is another setback in a difficult spell, but France’s campaign is not defined by one player’s absence. The response of the squad will matter just as much as the names missing. Zidane must find a balanced lineup, build understanding quickly and ensure that the team remains focused on the group standings.
With Italy and Turkey both presenting serious tests, France cannot afford to treat either match as routine. The coming week will reveal whether the squad’s depth can withstand the injury list—and whether the replacements can help keep the team on course for the Nations League quarter-finals.
