Zidane’s France beckons: Lepaul could become the next Bleus striker

Zinédine Zidane’s official appointment as head of the France national team could herald a fresh chapter for French talent, with striker Esteban Lepaul emerging as a potential candidate for the Bleus after a standout season, with a contract secured until 2030 and a reputation as last season’s Ligue 1 top scorer.

After a particularly successful campaign with Stade Rennais, Lepaul was rewarded with a new contract that runs to 2030. The extension reflects the club’s confidence in his continued impact.

The forward finished the previous campaign as the Ligue 1 top scorer, confirming his potency in front of goal. His tally placed him ahead of all other attackers in the French top flight.

Stade Rennais now aims to translate domestic dominance into European competition and to draw the attention of the Bleus. A strong showing on the continental stage could accelerate Lepaul’s national team prospects.

Ligue 1’s top scorer Esteban Lepaul could become Zidane’s surprise

His performances have not escaped former France striker Jean‑Pierre Papin. Jean‑Pierre Papin, often referred to simply as Pierre, has watched Lepaul’s rise closely. The ex‑Ballon d’Or winner has been vocal about Lepaul’s potential.

Papin backs Lepaul’s chances

“Je pense qu’il aura sa chance ! Il a toujours marqué, à n’importe quel niveau. Il n’y a pas de raison pour que ça s’arrête”, Papin told L’Équipe. He believes the Rennes striker possesses the consistency required for international duty.

Pour the striker, the next hurdle is breaking into a France squad already brimming with world‑class forwards. En équipe de France, le problème est qu’il y a des joueurs hors norme, Papin warned, highlighting the fierce competition. Il notes that Lepaul offers a rare ‘9 de surface’ profile, capable of delivering in the final metres and instinctively finding the net, qualities that could fit Zidane’s plans.

Lepaul now must sustain his form throughout the current season to turn optimism into a genuine call‑up. Success would convert the hopes of Zidane’s camp into a concrete selection for the Bleus.