French-Ivorian Rayan Fofana earns first France U21 call-up after Mathys Tel injury

France Under-21s have handed a first call-up to Rayan Fofana after Mathys Tel was forced to withdraw from the squad through injury.

The French Football Federation confirmed the change on Tuesday, announcing that Tel would miss the training camp after sustaining a thigh injury during Premier League action last weekend.

The forward was injured in Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

In an official statement, the federation said: “Mathys Tel is forced to withdraw from the training camp with the French U21 team. He is replaced by Rayan Fofana (RC Lens).”

Fofana’s inclusion marks a significant moment in the young striker’s career, as he receives his first call-up to the national under-21 setup.

The 20-year-old, who plays for RC Lens, has been rewarded for his performances at club level this season.

He has made 22 appearances in Ligue 1, contributing five goals and one assist, figures that underline his growing influence in the team.

His consistency has helped him stand out among emerging talents, earning recognition from the national team selectors.

Fofana joins a squad that already includes his Lens teammates Robin Risser and Ismaëlo Ganiou, further strengthening the club’s representation at international level.

France Under-21s are preparing for their upcoming Euro U21 2027 qualifying fixtures, with two matches scheduled in the coming days.

The team will travel to Luxembourg on Tuesday for an evening kick-off, before returning home to face Iceland next Monday. The second match will be held at the Stade de l’Abbé-Deschamps in Auxerre.

The late change in the squad presents an opportunity for Fofana to make an impression at international level, while the coaching staff will be hoping to maintain continuity despite Tel’s absence.

With qualification points at stake, France will look to adapt quickly as they continue their campaign.