Zidane's Bold First Squad: Diouf and Da Cunha Handed Maiden France Calls as Thuram Misses Italy Clash

Zinedine Zidane has never been one to tiptoe into a new job, and his first France squad proves exactly that. As reported by Football Italia, the new Les Bleus boss has handed first-ever senior call-ups to Diouf and Da Cunha ahead of the marquee clash with Italy, while making the boldest possible statement by leaving Thuram out of the squad entirely. The double promotion is classic Zidane: ambitious, decisive, and unafraid of ruffling feathers. Fresh faces joining a squad packed with tournament winners and global superstars signal that the 1998 World Cup champion intends to build the team in his own image from day one. For Diouf and Da Cunha, the call represents the ultimate validation — a chance to train alongside the elite and potentially make their international bows against one of Europe's most storied sides. But it is the omission of Thuram that will dominate the back pages in France. Cutting a player of his pedigree for such a high-profile fixture is a calculated risk, and one that invites immediate scrutiny. Is it a message about form, a tactical decision, or the beginning of a changing of the guard? With no detailed explanation offered, the silence will only fuel the debate among supporters and pundits alike. The timing makes every decision weightier. With the World Cup 2026 looming, every squad list between now and next summer doubles as an audition. Players on the fringes — and those suddenly finding themselves outside the fold — now understand that Zidane is watching closely, and that loyalty to past glories counts for little. The Italy match itself carries plenty of narrative spice. Two of European football's heavyweight nations, both navigating new eras under high-profile leadership, meeting with a genuine edge. For Zidane, it is an early test of his man-management and tactical blueprint against opposition of real quality. For the newcomers, it is the chance to prove they belong at this level. France fans have been eager to see how the legendary midfielder would shape his squad since his appointment was confirmed, and the early answer is clear: expect the unexpected. Zidane's first selection blends proven quality with fresh hunger — and delivers a reminder that nobody's place is safe. If this squad announcement is anything to go by, the road to the 2026 World Cup just got a lot more interesting for Les Bleus.