Zidane backs a reshuffled side to take on Belgium

After securing a valuable win in Turkey on Friday (1-0), the French team is set to face Belgium at the King‑Baudouin Stadium. For his second match in charge of the Bleus, Zinedine Zidane wants to carry out a very extensive squad overhaul and inject fresh blood at all levels, while retaining goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

An unprecedented defence

In goal, continuity prevails with the presence of Mike Maignan, the AC Milan goalkeeper, who delivered a very convincing performance in Turkey. The defence, on the other hand, will be completely renewed: Pierre Kalulu is expected to start on the right, Dayot Upamecano will occupy the centre and will have to guide the young Jérémy Jacquet, who is set to celebrate his first start. On the left side, Andy Diouf is also awaiting his first cap for the French team.

Midfield and Camavinga's return

Adrien Rabiot, promoted to captain for the occasion, should be retained in midfield. Eduardo Camavinga will make his big return to the heart of the game, tasked with injecting pace into recoveries and transitions. Supporting him, Lucas Da Cunha is expected to celebrate his first call‑up and bring his technical touch in the final thirty metres of the opposition.

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Renewed attack

Kylian Mbappé, injured on his left knee and back in Madrid, leaves a vacant spot up front. Esteban Lepaul, who christened the squad three days after his appearance against Turkey, takes on the number 9 role. He will be supported on the wings by Bradley Barcola of Paris‑SG, ready to exploit his speed, and by Désiré Doué on the right side.

The likely lineup for the Bleus is thus: Maignan – Kalulu, Upamecano, Jacquet, A. Diouf – Camavinga, Da Cunha, Rabiot (cap.) – D. Doué, Lepaul, Barcola.

This selection reflects Zidane's desire to combine experience and youth, while addressing the absences and rotations imposed by the international calendar.