Zidane's call‑up gives Wolfsburg's Kumbedi France chance

VfL Wolfsburg’s Saël Kumbedi (21) has been called up to the France squad by Zinédine Zidane to replace the injured Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu (26), the French Football Federation (FFF) announced.

Playing in the German second division, the 21-year-old full-back is a regular starter for Tobias Strobl’s side, having started eight of the nine matches he has played since the start of the season.

He joined VfL on a permanent transfer from Olympique Lyonnais in January 2026 and has made 36 appearances for Wolfsburg, providing five assists.

Last season, which saw the Saxon club relegated to the 2. Bundesliga, he made a total of 27 appearances across all competitions.

A French Under-21 international who came through the ranks at Le Havre, the player has earned nine caps for his country.

Pierre Kalulu suffered a hamstring injury to his left leg, was called up last September and has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming matches against Italy and Turkey.