Zidane has chosen a mix of youth and experience, with Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, Liverpool center back Jérémy Jacquet, Como midfielder Lucas Da Cunha, Inter Milan's Andy Diouf, and Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes set to make their debuts in upcoming Nations League games. Lepaul, who scored 20 league goals for Rennes last season, has made a strong start to the current campaign, netting three goals in four games.
The 21-year-old Jacquet has impressed since joining Liverpool from Rennes in the offseason, with Zidane praising his profile and ability to play in tight spaces. Diouf, who plays in midfield for Inter Milan, will be used as a left back for France, a position Zidane believes he can excel in. Lepaul, on the other hand, has a different profile from what France is used to seeing, and Zidane is eager to see him up close.
Zidane has also recalled Adrien Truffert, who last played for France four years ago. The fullback position was one of France's weaker areas at the World Cup this year. Zidane has ruled out a return for Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté, citing the need to see younger players and help the team evolve.
The 23-player squad is a departure from other nations, who have chosen larger squads. Zidane has opted for a more streamlined approach, with the aim of giving all players a chance to play. France's first Nations League game is against Türkiye on September 25, followed by a match against Belgium three days later.