Mbappe to miss France's Italy clash; Zidane hands PSG youngster maiden call-up

Kylian Mbappe (Reuters Photo)

France have suffered a major setback ahead of their crucial UEFA Nations League encounter against Italy, with captain Kylian Mbappe missing training due to a hamstring issue. The Real Madrid forward is set to miss Thursday's clash in Milan, forcing France coach Zinedine Zidane to make changes to his attacking options.According to French sports daily L'Equipe, Mbappe is struggling with a hamstring problem and will not feature against Italy at the San Siro. However, the 27-year-old could return for France's final group-stage fixture against Turkey on Sunday in Bordeaux.

Senny Mayulu joins Eli Junior Kroupi as France newcomer

Mayulu is the second 20-year-old forward to receive his maiden senior call-up for France during the ongoing international break. Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi was previously added to the squad after Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram withdrew with a hamstring injury.Kroupi's inclusion and Mayulu's promotion provide Zidane with additional attacking options as France deal with fitness concerns among their forwards.For Mayulu, the call-up represents a significant milestone in his career, offering him an opportunity to make his senior international debut. The PSG youngster has impressed with his performances at club level and was already involved with the Under-21 setup before receiving the senior-team promotion.

France aim to secure Nations League quarter-final spot against Italy

France head into Thursday's encounter at the San Siro with qualification for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals in their sights. Les Bleus currently lead their group and can secure their place in the last eight with a victory over Italy. The quarter-finals are scheduled to take place in March.Following the Italy fixture, France will conclude their group-stage campaign against Turkey in Bordeaux on Sunday.