Defender Pierre Kalulu in line for France recall amid right-back shortage ahead of US friendlies

Versatile Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, could earn a recall to the France national team for the upcoming US tour later this month.

As manager Didier Deschamps prepares to name his squad for Brazil, Colombia games on Thursday, Kalulu, who has Congolese roots has been tipped to make the cut.

France is currently facing a shortage of right-backs after Jules Koundé (Barcelona) remains sidelined with an injury until April. Chelsea’s Malo Gusto is expected to be called up despite having missed France’s recent 3-0 home defeat to PSG in the Champions League knockout phase due to illness.

Kalulu could step in at right-back, with his versatility and status as a regular starter at a major European club highly valued by Deschamps.

The 25-year-old only has one previous appearance for Les Bleus, a game he struggled during France’s dramatic 5-4 loss to Spain in the 2025 Nations League semi-finals.

Despite that difficult outing, Kalulu’s ability to operate in multiple positions across the backline and his consistent performances for Juventus make him a viable option to fill the void at right-back.

Should he be selected, Kalulu will be looking to redeem himself on the international stage and prove that he can perform under the spotlight for France, while providing Deschamps with much-needed defensive options ahead of high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.

The announcement tomorrow will be closely watched, as Les Bleus seek to balance experience, versatility, and form in preparation for a busy summer of international fixtures.