France: Kurt Zouma Called Up to Replace Injured Center Backs Mangala and Perrin
With Eliaquim Mangala and Loïc Perrin both uncertain due to calf injuries, Didier Deschamps has opted to reinforce France’s defensive line by calling up Kurt Zouma for the upcoming friendlies against Albania and Sweden.
This marks the third squad change ahead of the friendlies, following the additions of Layvin Kurzawa (to replace Trémoulinas) and Maxime Gonalons (for the injured Blaise Matuidi).
Zouma, who was already training with the French U21 squad at Clairefontaine, now joins the senior team. While still raw, the 20-year-old Chelsea defender is no stranger to the senior setup — he was previously called up for a friendly against Australia under similar circumstances.
A product of Saint-Étienne and a U20 World Champion, Zouma has played just five matches this season, including a couple of short Premier League appearances, but remains one of the most promising French defenders of his generation. This latest call-up provides a chance for him to continue learning — and perhaps earn his first senior international cap.
🔍 Quick Recap:
Zouma replaces Mangala & Perrin due to injury concerns.
Deschamps’ 3rd squad adjustment ahead of the friendlies.
Zouma is seen as a future mainstay in France’s defense.
The young center back could make his debut this week.
With both Albania and Sweden as upcoming opponents, all eyes will be on how this reshuffled French backline holds up — and whether Zouma seizes his opportunity.
