Zinedine Zidane considers major France changes after Italy defeat

Zinedine Zidane is preparing to reshape France’s starting XI for their decisive Nations League meeting with Turkey on Sunday in Bordeaux, following the 3-1 defeat by Italy at San Siro.

France need only a draw to secure a place in the Nations League quarter-finals, but defeat could have serious consequences. Zidane’s side are second in Group A and would require Belgium to draw with Italy to avoid dropping to third place and being eliminated.

The France manager is also seeking a response to a disappointing display against Italy, particularly in defensive discipline and the team’s ability to cope with pressure.

Kylian Mbappe is expected to return to the starting line-up after being rested for the Italy match. The France captain trained on Friday and is likely to lead the attack, with Ousmane Dembele absent.

Mbappe played in a different position during the first meeting with Turkey but is expected to operate as the central striker this time. Michael Olise could start on the right, while Bradley Barcola is the leading candidate to retain his place on the left.

Desire Doue’s chances of starting appear limited after he failed to recover fully from a broken tooth suffered against Italy. He may be available depending on his condition, but beginning the match after his difficulties in the previous game is considered unlikely.

Midfield changes under consideration

Zidane is also weighing changes in midfield after France struggled to build from the back and resist the Italian press.

Rayan Cherki did not have the expected influence when used as the advanced midfielder, while Adrien Rabiot made several mistakes that affected the team’s balance.

Warren Zaire-Emery could be given another opportunity in midfield. Zidane has regularly praised his tactical flexibility and ability to play in several positions, including right-back, but prefers to use him in the centre. The match against Turkey could allow him to return to his favoured role.

Eduardo Camavinga is another strong contender to start after producing impressive performances during the previous international break. Zidane is looking to the Real Madrid player to bring greater energy, improve ball-winning and help France transition quickly from defence into attack.

Defensive selection forced by Upamecano absence

France will be without Dayot Upamecano, who conceded a penalty in the second half against Italy before leaving the squad for family reasons.

Ibrahima Konate and Leny Yoro are competing to replace the Bayern Munich defender. Konate has greater international experience, while Yoro can point to his promising display against Belgium at Stade de France in early October.

The full-back positions are also under scrutiny. Malo Gusto struggled on the right against Italy before being replaced by Sail Kumbedi.

Kumbedi, who joined the squad at the last moment, could make his first start on the right. Andy Diouf is in contention on the left after replacing Adrien Truffert in the 77th minute of the previous match.

For France, Sunday’s game is about more than qualification. It is an opportunity for Zidane to correct the weaknesses exposed by Italy and restore balance to a team that has yet to produce the level expected of it.