Zidane fields reserve team in Belgium with Lepaul leading the line and three debut starters

Zinedine Zidane is expected to field a heavily reshuffled team Monday evening at King Baudouin Stadium for France’s trip to Belgium, his second match in charge of Les Bleus following Friday’s victory in Turkey (1-0).

In goal, Mike Maignan retains his place after a convincing performance in Istanbul. In front of him, however, the entire defence will be renewed: Pierre Kalulu is expected on the right flank, Dayot Upamecano in central defence alongside Jérémy Jacquet, who should earn his first France cap, and Andy Diouf on the left side for his first international appearance.

In midfield, Adrien Rabiot, promoted to captain, is retained. Eduardo Camavinga makes his return to the heart of play, while Lucas Da Cunha is also set to mark his first selection in a playmaking or attacking midfield role.

In attack, the absence of Kylian Mbappé, who returned to Madrid due to a left knee injury, leaves the number 9 position vacant. Esteban Lepaul is the frontrunner to fill it, three days after his debut against Turkey. He would be supported by Bradley Barcola on the left wing and Désiré Doué on the right.

Probable lineup: Maignan — Kalulu, Upamecano, Jacquet, A. Diouf — Camavinga, Da Cunha, Rabiot (capt.) — D. Doué, Lepaul, Barcola.