Esteban Lepaul France squad injury update, Digi Mart USA News: As France approaches its second international break of the season, doubt remains over the availability of Stade Rennais forward Esteban Lepaul. Still bothered by an ankle injury, the striker could miss France’s next fixtures.
Lepaul has not played since October 18 and has already missed three matches: against Juventus (2-2), at Strasbourg (3-0), and against Nice (5-2). He suffered a sprain in Ligue 1 matchday 7 against Paris FC and will also miss Rennes’ Europa League match against Olympiakos scheduled for Wednesday, November 4.
His availability for the next France gathering is therefore increasingly uncertain.
According to RMC Sport, although medical examinations revealed no significant lasting damage, the player still feels discomfort that prevents him from returning to the pitch. The outlet considers it unlikely he will be available for the match against Lille on Sunday, November 8.
Internally, the club reportedly mentioned a recovery period that could last three weeks.
Zinédine Zidane is scheduled to announce his squad on November 6, and Lepaul is not yet assured of a place with Les Bleus, appearing to move further from contention. Having received his first France call-up, he could miss the upcoming international fixtures.
France faces Italy and Turkey on November 12 and 15 in the UEFA Nations League, and the national team may have to proceed without the Rennes forward and find an alternative.
The setback is a blow for the player, who had hoped to use these fixtures to further demonstrate his qualities and earn points with Zidane. After a first experience in which he did not manage to score, Lepaul may have to wait before wearing the France jersey again.
