Zinédine Zidane names 50-player preliminary France squad

Zinédine Zidane has released a preliminary squad of approximately 50 players for the French national team ahead of his official debut. The list includes several uncapped players, such as Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, Paris FC’s Pablo Pagis, Lens defender Ismaïlo Ganiou, and Inter Milan’s Andy Diouf. Zidane has also appointed Fabien Barthez as the team’s goalkeeping coach, with David Bettoni serving on the technical staff.

The final squad announcement is expected on September 18. Those selected will face a demanding UEFA Nations League schedule between September 25 and October 5, featuring matches against Turkey, Belgium (twice), and Italy.

Observers are closely watching Zidane’s potential roster changes, including the possible inclusion of Liverpool’s Jérémy Jacquet to cover for the absence of William Saliba. The new management aims to establish a tactical direction for the team leading up to the 2030 World Cup cycle.