RC Lens defender Matthieu Udol has expressed his disappointment after being omitted from Zinédine Zidane’s final France squad for the upcoming international break.
The 30-year-old left-back, who had been included in Zidane’s expanded selection, failed to make the final cut, a decision he addressed shortly after Lens’ 2-1 defeat to AS Monaco on Friday night.
Speaking to Ligue 1 Plus, Udol stated, “Yes, I was disappointed [not to be called up]. It is normal when you are a competitor. You want to get there. Now, it is up to me to redouble my efforts and to be there next time around.”
This omission marks another missed opportunity for Udol, who has never received a call-up to the France national team throughout his career. His ambition for international recognition comes at a significant point in his professional journey.
Udol’s career has been marked by considerable challenges, including four anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Despite these setbacks, he made a significant move in the summer of 2025, joining RC Lens from FC Metz. This transfer saw him step up to a club competing at an elite level, and he is currently experiencing UEFA Champions League football for the first time.
For the left-back position, which Udol occupies, national team coach Zinédine Zidane ultimately opted to recall Adrien Truffert and also included Andy Diouf in the final squad.
Udol’s determination to earn a future call-up remains clear, as he looks to build on his current form with Lens and continue to push for a place in the national team setup.