Zinedine Zidane explains Lucas Hernandez omission and praises ‘brilliant’ Desire Doue

Zinedine Zidane says Lucas Hernandez remains eligible for France despite being left out of the squad for the Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey, insisting the decision was based on tactical choices rather than the Paris Saint-Germain defender’s age or form.

Hernandez has produced a series of strong performances for Paris Saint-Germain in recent weeks, but was not included in Zidane’s second squad since the France manager opted for Leny Yoro, Adrien Truffert and Andy Diouf in the left-back position.

“ No, he is not old to be part of the France team,” Zidane said at a news conference on Friday, according to Foot Mercato. “These are choices and, unfortunately, we have to make them. He is part of the initial list of 64 players, but in the end I make my decisions.

“I chose other players for this camp, but the door remains open to everyone.”

France will face Italy on 12 November 2026 before playing Turkey on 15 November 2026 in the Nations League – Path 1.

Zidane compares himself to Doue

Zidane also highlighted the rapid progress of Paris Saint-Germain forward Desire Doue, describing the young player’s recent performances as outstanding and saying he recognises elements of his own playing character in him.

“Like all the players, I love them all, but what Desire has produced over a short period has been truly brilliant,” Zidane said.

“He is a young player with enormous talent. He listens carefully and wants to improve and win trophies. I like what he does on the pitch and I see myself in him when I was a player, because he is always trying to move forward and develop alongside his team-mates, and he does that excellently.”

The France manager was also asked about Kylian Mbappe’s role, particularly with Ousmane Dembele unavailable because of injury. Mbappe played on the left wing during the previous international window in September, but Zidane confirmed he would be used in his preferred central position during this break.

“You remember what happened in September, but Kylian will also be able to play in his preferred position during this international window, in the centre of the attack, and there will be no problem,” he said.

“When I call up a player, I always want to see him in his preferred position. Kylian began his career on the left wing, then played on the right and through the middle.”

Zidane ended the news conference by addressing the death of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel, who played for Tenerife. He said he did not want to discuss the details but described himself as deeply affected by the tragedy.

“I am extremely sad and affected, to the point of having chills,” Zidane said. “We do not want to see scenes like this in football stadiums. That is the only message I want to send.

“I am especially sad for his family, and I hope we never see an incident like this again.”