Pierre Kalulu withdraws from France squad with hamstring injury

Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu has withdrawn from the France squad for the upcoming international break after suffering a hamstring injury, Africasoccer.com has learned.

The 26-year-old had been selected by coach Zinédine Zidane for the second international camp of his tenure but will now miss France’s UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.

Kalulu will remain with Juventus as he recovers from the injury.

Kalulu’s withdrawal leaves France with a defensive option

The right-back has made 15 appearances in all competitions for Juventus this season.

He has also earned five caps for France and started twice under Zidane, featuring against Belgium and Italy.

With Kalulu unavailable, Zidane can call on Malo Gusto to fill the right-back position.

It remains unclear whether the France coach will name a replacement for the Juventus defender following his late withdrawal.