France suffer fresh defensive blow as Pierre Kalulu ruled out with injury

Zinedine Zidane has left Pierre Kalulu out of France’s squad for the current international break after the defender was injured playing for Juventus.

Kalulu suffered a problem with his left hamstring during Juventus’ 2-2 draw against Fiorentina in the 11th round of the Italian league.

According to Foot Mercato, the injury will keep Kalulu in Turin, where he will remain for treatment rather than join up with the France squad.

France are scheduled to play Turkey and Italy during this international period, with both matches taking place in the group stage of the Nations League.

Kalulu’s withdrawal adds to a lengthy list of absentees for France in November. William Saliba, Jules Kounde, Maxence Lacroix, Manu Kone, Ousmane Dembele and Esteban Lepaul are also unavailable because of injury.

Saliba plays for Arsenal, Kounde for Barcelona, Lacroix for Chelsea, Kone for Roma, Dembele for Paris Saint-Germain and Lepaul for Rennes.

There is also a suspension affecting France’s defensive options. Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano will miss the first match against Italy, but will be available for the second game against Turkey.

France currently lead Group A with 10 points from three wins and one draw.