Aurelien Tchouameni ruled out as France suffer third injury blow

Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of France’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey after suffering a groin injury in training.

The Real Madrid midfielder left France’s session early on Tuesday after sustaining the problem. L’Equipe reported that Tchouameni underwent medical examinations to establish the exact nature and severity of the injury, amid concerns that he could be forced to leave the national team camp.

However, RMC subsequently confirmed that the 26-year-old will miss both of France’s next fixtures.

France face Italy in the UEFA Nations League – League A on Thursday, 12 November 2026, before playing Turkey on Sunday, 15 November 2026.

Tchouameni missed Zinedine Zidane’s first France camps in September and October, but returned to the squad in November. There had been considerable anticipation surrounding his first appearance under the new manager, particularly after he regained his form and produced a series of strong performances for Real Madrid.

His injury is the latest setback for Zidane, who has lost three players from his plans in the space of roughly 24 hours.

France left Pierre Kalulu out of the squad on Monday evening and called up Sael Kumbedi, the Wolfsburg player, as his replacement. Marcus Thuram then withdrew from the squad on Tuesday, with Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi brought in.

Tchouameni’s absence leaves Zidane facing the possibility of being without a third player before Thursday’s meeting with Italy, followed by the game against Turkey on Sunday.