France head coach Zinedine Zidane is facing a mounting selection crisis at Clairefontaine after Aurelien Tchouameni suffered a fresh setback during the international camp, with Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey ahead.
Tchouameni leaves tactical session
Tchouameni, described as Real Madrid's midfield anchor, was unable to complete Tuesday's training session with France. He failed to finish a tactical session at the national team's base and subsequently underwent medical evaluation, while the France staff are anxious over his availability for the upcoming fixtures.
According to L'Équipe, the 26-year-old is dealing with a pubic injury. L'Équipe described it as a frustrating development for a player who has struggled to maintain consistent rhythm following a series of physical setbacks over the past year.
Limited international involvement
Tchouameni has not featured for Les Bleus since the Euro semi-final defeat to Spain. He missed the September and October international windows because Zidane believed he was not yet fully recovered from a foot problem.
Zidane had previously been cautious with Tchouameni, stating that it was preferable for him to stay in Madrid during past international windows to ensure a full recovery from previous adductor issues. L'Équipe noted the recurring nature of his fitness problems as a growing concern for both club and country following the training-ground incident that sidelined him on Tuesday evening.
France already missing senior players
The French squad has already been weakened by the departures of Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu and Inter striker Marcus Thuram. Thuram was forced to withdraw after failing to overcome a persistent issue in his right hamstring sustained during domestic duty.
France are scheduled to travel to Milan to face Italy on Thursday before a home tie against Turkey on Sunday.
Further tests to determine his status
Further tests are scheduled to determine whether Tchouameni can remain with the France group. If medical scans confirm a layoff, he will likely return to Madrid for specialized treatment under the supervision of Real Madrid's medical department.
Several senior figures being unavailable has forced the French coaching staff to accelerate their transitional plans and increased pressure on the remaining squad members to perform against elite opposition.
