Zinédine Zidane has called up defender Saël Kumbedi to replace the injured Pierre Kalulu in the France squad. The 21-year-old right-back, who plays for Wolfsburg in Germany's second division, joins Les Bleus for the upcoming Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.

Kalulu, 24, was forced to withdraw after suffering a hamstring injury on Sunday evening during Juventus's Serie A match against Fiorentina. His absence forces the French staff to act just days before the trip to Milan scheduled for 12 November. France will then face Turkey in Bordeaux on 15 November.

A new face

Saël Kumbedi, trained at Le Havre and formerly of Olympique Lyonnais, therefore joins the senior squad for the first time. He has yet to earn a senior cap. Loaned to Wolfsburg in 2025, the German club triggered the purchase option and made his transfer permanent in January 2026 for a fee of six million euros. Born in Stains, he joins fellow defenders Leny Yoro and Malo Gusto in the group.

Nathan Zézé, a member of the France staff, spoke about Zidane's philosophy regarding young talents. "He sent us a positive message that we are being watched and that we are not so far from the castle," he said. This call-up rewards the player's consistent club form.

The sporting context

Les Bleus enter this international break on a three-match unbeaten run. Their last result was a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Belgium on 5 October, with goals from Désiré Doué, Rayan Cherki and a brace from Michael Olise. They had previously drawn 1-1 with Italy, with Olise also on the scoresheet. Striker Kylian Mbappé remains the top scorer this season with ten goals in eight appearances. The next fixture, away to Italy, is therefore key in the Nations League campaign. Supporters can view the full schedule on our fixtures page.

The squad will travel to Italy aiming to confirm their positive attacking momentum. The group, bolstered by Kumbedi's arrival, will hold its first training session on Tuesday at Clairefontaine.

Background and full detail: Foot Mercato

On November 11, forward Marcus Thuram left the France squad due to injury, the FFF announced. The medical staff made the decision after the Inter player felt persistent discomfort. Zinédine Zidane called up Eli Junior Kroupi as a replacement. "Eli Junior Kroupi has been called up by the manager to replace Marcus Thuram," the France staff stated. The 20-year-old Bournemouth forward joins the group for the first time. France, unbeaten in their last three matches, face Italy on November 12.