Ganiou (Lens) pre-called up by Zidane for France list

As reported by RMC Sport, Ismaëlo Ganiou has received a pre-call-up to the French national team after his early-season impact with Lens. The 21-year-old centre-back is on the radar of Zinédine Zidane’s staff ahead of the manager’s first squad list.

RMC Sport also says the same pre-invitation has gone to Andy Diouf (Inter) and Esteban Lepaul (Stade Rennais), suggesting Zidane’s initial group of selections could blend immediate club form with new prospects.

Why he’s on the shortlist

At Lens, Ganiou really stepped up in late 2025 and cemented his place as a starter in Pierre Sage’s 3-4-2-1. His run was made even more important by the grave injury to Jonathan Gradit, which opened the door for Ganiou to keep his spot. He was also a starter in Lens’ 3-1 win over Nice in the French Cup final.

With a contract extending to 2030, RMC Sport adds that this season will be a key testing ground in Champions League ties, including high-profile matches against Manchester City and Liverpool.

The next step: Zidane’s first list

The next milestone is the official announcement. Per RMC Sport, Zidane will reveal the names for France’s first four matches of the 2027 Nations League group phase. France face Turkey (25 September), Belgium (28 September), Italy (2 October) and Belgium again (5 October).