Zidane Eyes First France Call-Up for Inter's Reborn Wing-Back Diouf

Inter Milan's Andy Diouf has emerged as a genuine candidate for a first senior France call-up, with reports in Italy claiming that national team coach Zinedine Zidane is tracking the 22-year-old's resurgence at San Siro. According to Football Italia, Thursday's reports suggest the Frenchman's recent transformation — sparked by a positional switch to wing-back — has put him firmly in contention for a place in Les Bleus' next squad as preparations for the 2026 World Cup gather pace. Diouf's journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. Signed from Swiss side Basel amid high expectations, the midfielder initially found regular football hard to come by in Serie A, prompting speculation about his long-term future at the Nerazzurri. However, a tactical repositioning has changed everything. Deployed at wing-back, Diouf has been able to showcase the qualities that made him such a coveted young talent: relentless energy, intelligent positional play, and a willingness to contribute at both ends of the pitch. The role demands the kind of stamina and tactical discipline that suits his profile perfectly, and his performances have reportedly not gone unnoticed in the French camp. For Zidane, who is shaping his squad ahead of football's showpiece event in North America next summer, the appeal is obvious. Tournament football rewards versatility, and a player comfortable operating in multiple roles offers valuable squad flexibility. France are already blessed with depth in wide areas, but Diouf's profile as a duel-winning, box-to-flank operator adds a different dimension to the options available. A maiden call-up would complete a remarkable turnaround for a player who appeared destined for the exit door just months ago. It would also represent a significant personal milestone — the chance to stake an early claim for a seat on the plane to the World Cup and announce himself on the international stage. While nothing is confirmed until the squad list is officially announced, the reports underline how quickly fortunes can change in football. Diouf seized an unexpected opportunity at Inter, converted it into consistent performances, and now stands on the verge of international recognition. Whether he makes the final cut remains to be seen, but with Zidane reportedly keeping close tabs on his progress, the reborn wing-back has given himself every chance of forcing his way into France's World Cup plans. For a player written off by many not so long ago, the possibility of pulling on the famous blue shirt under one of France's greatest-ever footballers would be a fitting reward for his persistence.