Truffert in France squad under Zidane: Bournemouth left-back emerges as serious candidate

With Zinédine Zidane’s first France squad list just days away, the left flank of the defense is drawing intense scrutiny. Lucas Digne, transferred to PSG, has yet to play an official minute in his new colours, while the Hernandez brothers are going through a period of doubt following their recent outings with France.

In this context, Adrien Truffert’s name is gaining traction. The 24-year-old left-back, who wore the French shirt just once — in September 2022 — has displayed remarkable consistency at Bournemouth, combining defensive solidity with offensive activity. A regularity that contrasts with the uncertainty surrounding his direct rivals.

Consultant Pierre Ménès has taken an unambiguous stance. « I was already surprised that Truffert wasn’t in the France squad for the last World Cup. So yes, I think that could be one of Zidane’s novelties in the first matches, » he said. « Especially since the competition isn’t fierce. I’m not sure Digne will get huge playing time by then and that the Hernandez brothers are really competitors. So I think Truffert could indeed be France’s new left-back. »

The player himself says he is focused on his club but is keeping all doors open. « No player would refuse France, » he said. « Any player who plays in a major league and performs more or less has it in the back of his mind. If good things are to happen, they’ll come through club performances. I’m 100% focused on Bournemouth. But if France calls me, I’ll be there. »

Zidane’s first squad list should therefore provide a concrete answer to this debate: confirm the established hierarchy or give Truffert a second chance in selection, two and a half years after his first and only cap.