Zidane recalls Risser despite nine goals conceded in Champions League

Robin Risser features in Zinédine Zidane’s latest squad list for the calendar year, unveiled on Friday, despite the nine goals conceded by the Racing Club de Lens goalkeeper in his last Champions League match. He has been called up alongside Mike Maignan and Guillaume Restes for the next two Nations League matches.

The presence of the Lens goalkeeper raises eyebrows, especially as Jean Butez, his compatriot who was in goal for the opposing side in that same match, could have legitimately claimed his place in the squad. Butez had already been included in the selection in September, called up urgently to cover for a Risser injury, although he was not fielded against Turkey, Italy and Belgium.

Zidane justified his choice straightforwardly at a press conference. “The choice was very simple. In the first list, Robin was planned and there was a small issue, he was a bit injured. We called Jean, who did his job very well and is a fantastic guy. But for this gathering, I wanted to see Robin quite simply, and Fabien (Barthez) too,” he said.

On the question of the hierarchy between the goalkeepers, the manager preferred to play it safe. “I can’t tell you that right now. We wanted Robin to be here for this gathering and then we’ll discuss with Fabien to make our decision,” he added, suggesting that the final decision in the France goal remains open.