France suffer injury setback as Pierre Kalulu withdraws from squad

France have suffered an injury setback ahead of their upcoming international fixtures after Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu withdrew from the national team squad with a hamstring injury.

The 26-year-old has been forced to pull out of the squad after picking up the injury, ruling him out of the forthcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.

Kalulu had been included in France’s squad for the upcoming international break, marking the second international camp of Zinedine Zidane’s tenure as head coach of Les Bleus.

However, his hopes of featuring in the two fixtures have now been dashed by the injury, with the defender expected to remain in Turin to continue his recovery under the supervision of Juventus’ medical department.

The withdrawal comes as a blow to Zidane, who had identified Kalulu as one of his defensive options following the player’s impressive performances for Juventus this season.

The right-back has been an important figure for the Serie A side, making 15 appearances across all competitions and establishing himself as a regular option in the team’s defensive setup.

His performances at club level had also strengthened his position within the national team, having earned five caps for France since making his international debut.

Kalulu had already featured prominently under Zidane, starting in the matches against Belgium and Italy, further highlighting the confidence the French manager has placed in him.

His absence means Zidane will have to consider alternative options at right-back ahead of the two demanding international assignments, with Chelsea defender Malo Gusto available as a potential replacement in the position.

It remains unclear whether the France manager will name another player to replace Kalulu following his late withdrawal or proceed with the current squad.

France will now have to adjust their defensive plans as they prepare for the encounters against Italy and Turkey, while Juventus will monitor Kalulu’s recovery ahead of the resumption of club football.