Deleted laughing emoji fuels debate over Theo Hernandez’s France omission

Theo Hernandez has prompted debate after briefly posting a laughing emoji on X minutes after being left out of France’s squad for the current international break.

France manager Zinedine Zidane omitted the Al Hilal defender from the squad for the Nations League fixtures against Italy and Turkey, which conclude the group stage.

The 29-year-old posted the emoji on his official account shortly after the squad announcement, but removed it soon afterwards.

The timing led followers to interpret the post as a possible jibe at Zidane. The decision is particularly notable because it marks the second consecutive international break in which Hernandez has been left out by the France manager, following his omission in September.

France are due to face Italy on 12 November 2026 in the Nations League – Path One. Turkey are also among their opponents during the current international window.

Hernandez had been a regular member of France’s squad throughout Didier Deschamps’ tenure. His status has changed since Zidane took charge, however, with the former Real Madrid manager yet to select him.

The situation has an added connection to Real Madrid. Hernandez played under Zidane during the 2017-2018 season, after joining the club from Atletico Madrid.

He made 23 appearances under Zidane during that campaign and provided three assists before moving on loan to Real Sociedad.

Hernandez has won 49 caps for France since making his international debut in 2021. He has scored two goals for his country and created 11 more.

The full-back’s absence therefore represents a sharp change from his previous role with the national team, although the source of the brief social-media post remains unconfirmed. His decision to delete it quickly has nevertheless drawn attention because of its proximity to the squad announcement and his history with Zidane.

France’s fixtures against Italy and Turkey form part of the closing stage of the Nations League group schedule. The Italy match is listed for 12 November 2026 under Path One, with France continuing their campaign during the same international break.