Zidane refuses to replace Mbappé, Thauvin stays on the bench
After Kylian Mbappé's injury during France's 1‑0 win in Turkey, Florian Thauvin, striker for RC Lens, was hoping for a place in the French squad, but Zinedine Zidane ultimately chose not to call him up.
A Potentially Freed Spot
Kylian Mbappé's withdrawal, which occurred during France's 1‑0 victory in Turkey, could have freed up a spot in Zinedine Zidane's squad. The scenario could have smiled on Florian Thauvin, who saw a concrete opportunity. But the coach ultimately decided not to call for reinforcement.
A Goal‑Scorer in Form
Thauvin, who plays for RC Lens, started the season in a remarkable way. He already has five goals in seven appearances across all competitions, including three in Ligue 1. This form could match the coach's needs.
Although he is not a traditional left winger, the player knows how to occupy the front line. His experience with the French team, 2018 World Cup champions, and his thirteen caps strengthen his profile. He therefore possesses a valued international background.
Zinedine Zidane favoured continuity, refusing to replace the captain of the French team. No player will come to replace Mbappé, who left the training camp on Saturday morning after discussions between the French and Madrid medical staff. The striker is now at the disposal of Real Madrid.
Mbappé is injured after scoring France's only lead in Turkey
For the Lens player, it is a missed chance to rejoin the French team. He had already experienced a return to the national squad after several years of absence and continues to perform well with RC Lens. Zidane's decision does not close the door for the future.
Thauvin will need to persevere and remain decisive with Racing to convince the new national coach at upcoming camps. The window created by Mbappé's withdrawal was interesting, but it was not exploited.
The BeFootball statement, published on September 26, 2026, displayed in capitals: “ZINÉDINE ZIDANE AND HIS STAFF HAVE DECIDED: KYLIAN MBAPPÉ WILL NOT BE REPLACED!!!”. This announcement confirmed the final decision not to call a replacement.
Thus, the contrast between a potential opportunity and the desire for stability shows that Florian Thauvin's fate remains hanging on the next call‑up, while the French squad continues its path unchanged.