Guillaume Restes has become the youngest goalkeeper to start a match for France in 53 years. The 21-year-old Toulouse shot-stopper earned his first senior cap in the 4-1 Nations League victory over Belgium on October 5th.
Manager Zinedine Zidane explained his selection. “I took this decision to play Guillaume because at some point, he needs to feel what the France team is about,” he said. Zidane added that the experience went “super well” and he was happy for the young goalkeeper. He specified that the young keeper had been “very good” in his match and had “done what he had to do.”
This debut makes Restes the first Toulouse FC player to represent Les Bleus since Étienne Capoue in 2013. During the training camp, he worked alongside role model Mike Maignan and Jean Butez, also receiving advice from former keeper Fabien Barthez. Restes revealed that Barthez advised him to “keep it simple” and “not try to do too much.”
Restes's path is unique. As a youngster, he dreamed of playing as an attacker, inspired by Lionel Messi, before switching to goalkeeper at the age of 12. His rapid integration into the national team marks a new step in his development, following a Ligue 2 title win with Toulouse and a full season in Ligue 1.
France enters this international break with confidence, unbeaten in their last four matches (three wins, one draw). Following the win over Belgium and a 1-1 draw with Italy, they will travel to face Italy again on November 12th for their next fixture. The squad can rely on the efficiency of top scorer Kylian Mbappé, who has ten goals this season, and on young talents like Michael Olise, who scored a brace against the Belgians.
For his part, Guillaume Restes summed up his approach before the big occasion. “Have fun as usual, it's only football, don't change anything,” he stated. He also thanked his teammates for their help and trust. His successful first cap provides a solid foundation for his future with the French national team.
Background and full detail: Foot Mercato
