Zinédine Zidane Names 23-Player Squad for November Nations League Matches Against Italy and Turkey

Zinédine Zidane, the head coach of the French national football team, has announced the 23-player squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy on November 12 in Milan and Turkey on November 15 in Bordeaux. France currently leads their group with three wins and one draw, needing just one point to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

Key returns to the squad include captain Kylian Mbappé, who is France's all-time leading scorer, midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, and defender Ibrahima Konaté, all of whom have recovered from injuries. The squad also includes recalls for Warren Zaïre-Emery, Malo Gusto, and Robin Risser, who missed the initial gathering of Zidane's era but are now back. Notably, rookie forward Pablo Pagis receives his first call-up to the national team, representing a surprise addition.

In goal, Mike Maignan and Guillaume Restes return, with Robin Risser called up in lieu of the injured Jean Butez. Defensive adjustments include the selection of Lény Yoro to replace injured Maxence Lacroix, while Malo Gusto returns as Jules Koundé remains sidelined.

Several key players are unavailable due to injury, including winger Ousmane Dembélé, defender William Saliba, and Jules Koundé. In the attack, the absences of Dembélé and Esteban Lepaul have paved the way for Marcus Thuram's return to the squad.

Zidane's squad reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent as France aims to maintain their unbeaten run in the group stage with crucial matches against well-matched opponents. The team’s current form and tactical depth give them confidence heading into these decisive fixtures.