New details have emerged regarding Zinedine Zidane's first squad selection as head coach of the France national team.
İdman.Biz reports, citing Foot Mercato, that France's final squad will be announced next week. However, the names of several players included in Zidane's preliminary list have already emerged.
One of them is Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, who finished as Ligue 1's top scorer last season with 21 goals. The 26-year-old has also made a strong start to the new campaign, scoring three times in his first three matches. Lepaul has been included in France's preliminary squad for the first time in his career.
Another surprise name is Pablo Pagis. The 23-year-old winger registered 10 goals and five assists for Lorient in Ligue 1 last season before joining Paris FC in the summer. He has also earned his first inclusion in the senior national team's preliminary list.
Lens defender Ismaelo Ganiou has also caught Zidane's attention. The 21-year-old previously made one appearance for Burkina Faso before opting to represent France and now has an opportunity to earn his first senior call-up for Les Bleus.
Inter right wing-back Andy Diouf is another player to have been named in France's preliminary squad for the first time.
France will face Türkiye on September 25, Belgium on September 29, Italy on October 2 and Belgium again on October 5 in the UEFA Nations League.
Zidane is expected to announce his final squad next Friday.
