Doubt lingers over Estéban Lepaul as coach Zidane hesitates

While the French national team prepares its next call‑up, the case of Estéban Lepaul raises questions: the Rennes striker has not yet convinced Zinédine Zidane to secure his place among the Blues.

Forwards in two distinct categories

In the group of forwards for the France team, two categories are clearly distinguished. On the one hand, those who shone during the last training camp, such as Michael Olise, Désiré Doué and Kylian Mbappé, who earned the trust of the manager. On the other hand, the players who left without a goal or an assist, namely Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Estéban Lepaul.

Lepaul’s profile and the first starts

Lepaul, top scorer in Ligue 1 last season, has a pure number 9 profile that attracted the attention of Zinédine Zidane. The former Angers player was therefore started twice, against Belgium, in the first and second legs, but did not manage to make an impression.

Emmanuel Petit, analyst on RMC, judged that Lepaul “does not have the required speed quality” and lacks essential attributes to stand out in spaces. He nevertheless highlighted the intelligence of his movements.

L’Équipe condemns Ousmane Dembélé's flop for France

Alain Giresse, interviewed by L’Équipe, took a more moderate tone, recalling that Lepaul “almost scored” and that, despite the lack of chances in the first half, he showed a physical presence suited to finishing.

Equipe journalist Anthony Clément added that Lepaul’s effectiveness in front of goal stood out during the first sessions at Clairefontaine, even though the match did not reveal the expected weakness.

For the next November squad, the manager will have to decide whether to give Lepaul another chance or to favour other options, such as Marcus Thuram, Jean‑Philippe Mateta, Randal Kolo Muani, or the young Junior Kroupi, currently injured.