RC Lens defender Ismaelo Ganiou has been named in Zinédine Zidane’s provisional France squad, a significant development that could see the 21-year-old earn his first senior international cap for Les Bleus. This inclusion marks a potential breakthrough for the young defender as Zidane prepares to announce his inaugural official squad as France manager.
Ganiou’s Path to the National Team
Ismaelo Ganiou, a highly-rated centre-back for RC Lens, has been on the radar for international selection for some time. Despite having previously earned one cap for the Burkina Faso senior national team, he later opted to represent France at U21 level. His consistent performances in Ligue 1 have now seemingly caught the attention of the new national team coach, paving the way for a potential senior debut with France.
Zidane’s First Squad Takes Shape
Zinédine Zidane, who recently took the helm of the France national team, is set to unveil his first official squad on 18th September. This initial provisional list offers a glimpse into the manager’s plans and potential new faces he intends to integrate. Alongside Ganiou, other reported inclusions in the enlarged squad are Stade Rennais’ Esteban Lepaul and Inter Milan’s Andy Diouf, suggesting a fresh approach to squad selection.
A key factor in Ganiou’s potential call-up is the unavailability of Arsenal‘s William Saliba for the upcoming international break. Saliba has become a crucial defender for Les Bleus in recent months, and his absence creates an opportunity. Ganiou could potentially step into this role, offering Zidane a new defensive option and a chance to prove himself at the highest international level.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Ganiou as he aims to secure a spot in Zidane’s final squad. This provisional selection represents a significant milestone and a chance to establish himself on the international stage for France.