Manchester United defender Leny Yoro receives first France senior call-up

Manchester United defender Leny Yoro has been called up to the France senior squad for the first time after Ibrahima Konate was ruled out with a minor knee injury.

The 20-year-old was initially part of the Under-21 squad but has been moved up to Didier Deschamps’ senior group following Konate’s withdrawal. The Real Madrid centre-back has returned to Madrid for treatment.

Yoro has made four appearances for Manchester United this season. He started the entire matches against Sabah and Brighton, and also came on as a substitute against Ipswich Town and Everton.

His early-season form has now earned him the chance to represent France at senior level, having previously spoken about his ambition to receive a call-up.

“Of course, this is the dream for me,” Yoro said last year. “The big dream for me and for every French player, I think. If you can reach it, this is something you can’t explain, honestly.

“This is the dream of every child in France. So, if you can do it, that’s pretty crazy.”

The defender now has the opportunity to fulfil that ambition after being added to France’s senior squad.

France begin their UEFA Nations League campaign against Turkey on Friday. They will then face Belgium and Italy in their further fixtures.