Zinédine Zidane Calls Up Pablo Pagis to France Squad as Mbappé Moves Central
Pablo Pagis has received his first call-up to the France national team to replace the injured Maghnes Akliouche. The 23-year-old becomes the first Paris FC player to join the squad since 1973.
Zinédine Zidane has officially called up Pablo Pagis to the France national team for the very first time. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder joins the squad following the last-minute withdrawal of Maghnes Akliouche due to injury. Pagis will integrate with the team as they prepare for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.
Breaking a 50-Year Wait for Paris FC
The selection of Pablo Pagis represents a historic achievement for his current club. He is the first Paris FC player to be called up to the France national team since 1973, ending a decades-long wait for the Parisian outfit to see one of their own represent the national side. Pagis earned this opportunity after being recruited by Paris FC in the summer, following a period where he shined playing for Lorient.
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder also carries a familiar name in French football, as he is the son of former striker Mickaël Pagis. Now, the younger Pagis has the chance to make his own mark on the international stage under Zidane's guidance.
Zidane's Attacking Reshuffle and Mbappé's Position
Pagis arrives in a squad that is undergoing tactical adjustments due to player unavailability. Beyond the injury to Maghnes Akliouche, the France team is also navigating the absence of Ousmane Dembélé.
These absences are heavily influencing Zidane's tactical setup. Kylian Mbappé is expected to return to the central axis of the attack for the matches against Italy and Turkey. This marks a notable shift from Zidane's first gathering with the France team, during which Mbappé had been aligned on the left side.
Looking Ahead to Italy and Turkey
France's upcoming UEFA Nations League schedule features two significant fixtures. The team will first take on Italy on November 12. Just three days later, they will face Turkey on November 15. With the squad reshuffled and a new face in Pablo Pagis eager to prove himself, Zidane will look to secure positive results in these key international encounters.