France head coach Zinedine Zidane has announced his 23-man squad for the final UEFA Nations League group-stage fixtures against Italy and Turkey.
Les Bleus travel to Italy on November 12 before hosting Turkey three days later, with several notable absentees forcing Zidane to make changes to his selection. Among those missing are Jules Kounde, Ousmane Dembele, Esteban Lepaul, Maxence Lacroix and William Saliba.
The major talking point is the inclusion of Paris FC forward Pablo Pagis, who receives his first senior call-up following an injury to Paris Saint-Germain’s Maghnes Akliouche.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe leads the squad, while Aurelien Tchouameni returns to the international setup to strengthen the midfield alongside Warren Zaire-Emery.
Liverpool duo Jeremy Jacquet and Bradley Barcola have also been included after impressing for Andoni Iraola’s side this season.
Both summer signings featured in Wednesday’s Champions League defeat to Fenerbahce and are expected to be involved again when Liverpool face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday.
Barcola has made 13 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists, while Jacquet has featured 15 times for the Reds.
Zidane’s squad will assemble ahead of their trip to face Italy, looking to build on positive early momentum after previous victories over Turkey and Belgium.
With captain Kylian Mbappe leading the attack alongside several emerging talents, Les Bleus will be aiming to secure top spot in their Nations League group. Zidane continues to refine his squad as France prepare for two demanding fixtures to conclude the group stage.
Below is France’s full squad:
Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan, Guillaume Restes, Robin Risser.
Defenders: Andy Diouf, Malo Gusto, Jeremy Jacquet, Pierre Kalulu, Ibrahima Konate, Adrien Truffert, Dayot Upamecano, Leny Yoro.
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Rayan Cherki, Lucas Da Cunha, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery.
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Pablo Pagis, Marcus Thuram.
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