Mbappé smiling, Doué on fire, the new ones “in the middle of a dream”: Zidane’s Blues have launched their last gathering of 2026

He left the Blues due to an injury against Turkey (1-0) during Zinédine Zidane's first rally. Kylian Mbappé was therefore impatiently awaited at Clairefontaine for his big comeback and the final meeting of the selection in 2026. Based on the applause meter and the number of requests for autographs, the recent 2nd in the Ballon d'Or occupied the full attention of the 450 spectators present in the cold and night of the castle. Smiling, teasing and in good shape, the Madrilenian relished his reunion with the blue jersey. In the absence of Ousmane Dembélé, injured, he will start at number 9 on Thursday against Italy.

During a fast-paced session, twelve players trained under a few drops of rain, those who played with their club on Sunday were exempt. The public was thus able to observe Restes and Risser on goal, but also Gusto, Kumbedi, Konaté, Upamecano, Diouf, Zaire-Emery, Camavinga, Cherki, Doué, Olise, Pagis and Mbappé, under the eyes of Zinédine Zidane, wrapped up in his blue down jacket from the selection.

A D2 player in Blue… a first since 2006-2007

In technical exercises, and invigorating opposition, the Blues staff were able to observe the two new additions. Sael Kumbedi, right back of Wolfsburg, resident of the 2nd German division and called up after Pierre Kalulu's withdrawal due to injury Monday morning. A first since 2006/2007 and the presence of Boumsong and Mexes, then a Juventus Turin player. The former Lyonnais was lively and involved, under the encouragement of David Bettoni, Zidane's deputy. “It’s a dream to be here and I want to show all my qualities,” he whispers with a big smile on his face. It’s not a handicap to play in D2, I know what I’m capable of.”

Also read French team: Kumbedi summoned… a first for the Blues for a 2nd division player for almost 20 years

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Pagis lives “a waking dream”