Zidane backs Leny Yoro, barely seen in Manchester, for the Blues
Zinédine Zidane has called the 20‑year‑old centre‑back Leny Yoro into the France squad for the Nations League match against Turkey, following the withdrawal of Ibrahima Konaté, even though the player has only logged twenty minutes of Premier League action since the start of the season.
An unexpected call despite the lack of minutes
Since the start of the season, Yoro has played only twenty minutes in the Premier League, spread over the first five matchdays. His last league appearance was on September 6, in the 2‑2 draw against Everton, and he remained on the bench for the derby against Manchester City and the Champions League match against Sabah FK. In the League Cup, he was also absent from the starting eleven against Brighton and then against Fulham before the international break.
A journey between Lille and Manchester United
A former top prospect of LOSC Lille, Leny Yoro left the club in 2024 to join Manchester United, after being courted by Paris Saint‑Germain and Real Madrid. In the 2025‑2026 season, he made thirty‑three appearances in all competitions, including nineteen starts, showing recognized potential despite erratic performances. This year, however, he struggles to establish himself in front of Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire, who occupy the defensive hinge.
The reasons for Zidane's choice
The injured Ibrahima Konaté created a void that the manager filled by calling up Yoro, already in England and available immediately. Zidane preferred the young defender over other starters from their clubs, such as Jaydee Canvot, Joane Gadou, Ismaëlo Ganiou or Nathan Zézé, believing that Manchester United experience was an asset for the Bleus.
Zidane at the helm of France, Mbappé captain against Turkey
Already integrated into the Under‑21s and a regular at Clairefontaine, Yoro was ready to join group A as soon as the squad set off for Turkey in the early morning. His presence reinforces the continuity between the Bleuets and the Bleus, in line with the new manager's intent.
This choice allows Zidane to put into practice his concept of a bridge between the youngsters and the seniors, by offering a player already accustomed to the French system a swift transition. Yoro's integration illustrates the coach's strategy of prioritising availability and familiarity with the group.
Konaté out due to injury, Zidane calls up young Leny Yoro
For the 20‑year‑old defender, it is an opportunity not to be missed, potentially marking his first call‑up to the France national team. A convincing performance could finally confirm the immense potential that observers had spotted since his debut at Lille.