Kylian Mbappe set to miss France’s clash against Italy, Zidane hands first call-up to PSG youngster

New Delhi: France have suffered a massive setback ahead of their crucial UEFA Nations League clash against Italy, with skipper missing training due to a hamstring problem. The forward is now likely to miss Thursday’s encounter in Milan, forcing France head coach Zinedine Zidane to reshuffle his attacking options.

According to French sports daily L’Equipe’s report, Mbappe is dealing with a hamstring issue and will not play against Italy at the San Siro. However, the 27-year-old is likely to return for France’s last group-stage match against Turkey on Sunday in Bordeaux.

Zidane gave a maiden call-up to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward Senny Mayulu ahead of Italy clash in the Nations League. He becomes the second 20-year-old forward to get his maiden senior call-up for France during the ongoing international break. Earlier, Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi was added to the squad after Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram pulled out due to a hamstring injury.

The additions of Mayulu and Kroupi provide Zidane with additional options in attack amid ongoing fitness concerns in the French squad. The senior-team call-up marks a crucial step in Mayulu’s career, offering him an opportunity to make his senior international debut. He has been impressive at club level and previously played for France’s Under-21 team before earning promotion to the senior squad.

Mbappe among four French players ruled out as Zidane faces injury crisis

Mbappe becomes the fourth French player to sustain an injury setback, with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Pierre Kalulu and Marcus Thuram also being sidelined. Ousmane Dembele has also not been included in the squad due to injury. France are at the top of the Nations League Group A table and will qualify for the quarterfinals in March by defeating Italy at San Siro. The Nations League quarter-finals are scheduled to take place in March 2027.