Zidane backs young Senny Mayulu for the Nations League

In the dressing room of San Siro stadium, manager Zinédine Zidane announced the call‑up of Senny Mayulu, a young midfielder from Paris Saint‑Germain, for the upcoming Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey this Thursday as part of the qualification campaign.

The Paris Saint‑Germain youngster

Mayulu can play in several positions, which compensates for the absence of Aurélien Tchouaméni. There is no better time to launch the youngsters, according to the staff. For his second gathering, Zidane decided to give a chance to the newcomers and to test many players.

After Pablo Pagis and Eli Junior Kroupi, the manager called up Senny Mayulu. If Tchouaméni is not initially replaced, the concern over Kylian Mbappé’s form may have prompted the staff to summon him. His ability to play both in the midfield and up front as a false number 9 weighed into the decision.

Mayulu has already been present at Clairefontaine with the Bleuets, playing four matches since November 2025. He was promoted to the senior team. He extended his contract with Paris Saint‑Germain in early September until 2031.

Zidane relives the San Siro before the France‑Italy duel

Since his return to competition at the end of October, he has scored three goals and provided two assists in five appearances under Luis Enrique. He will join the France squad this Thursday in Milan for the first match of the November international window.

France have accumulated ten points in four matchdays and need only one point to secure their qualification for the quarter‑finals. In case of a win against Italy, France will be assured of first place in the group, allowing Zidane to potentially field his young talents against Turkey on Sunday.

Mayulu called up to the national team: Zidane reviews plans for Mbappé

Mayulu is the fourth player called up for the first time by Zidane during this break, after Pablo Pagis, Saël Kumbedi and Eli Junior Kroupi. He was already at Clairefontaine this week, called by the U21 manager Gérald Baticle. He joins the senior squad as the staff is shaken by injuries. Aurélien Tchouaméni has left the France camp. His PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé is set to miss the away match against Italy. France will face Roberto Mancini’s Italy at the San Siro. France will host Turkey in Bordeaux on Sunday.