Hugo Ekitike has missed the French team for the qualifications of next week's World Cup, but Didier Deschamps has handed over a first call-up to Monaco-wing player Maghnes Akliouche.
Since his relocation of Eintracht Frankfurt, Ekitike has made a clear start for life in Liverpool and scored three goals in so many games this season.
The 23-year-old, who scored five goals in five caps under the age of 21, was expected to make his senior international bow when France launched their qualifying campaign next week.
However, on this occasion, Deschamps overlooked Ekitike, but brought in Akliouche after he had an impression on his former club Monaco.
Rentée des classes pour nos bleus
Didier Deschamps a Dévoilé Sa Liste des 23, Avec La Première de Maghnes Akliouche
Cap désormais sur le début des qualifications à la coupe du monde 2026! #Fiersdetreleus pic.twitter.com/kxfuneol5o
– Equipe de France (@equipedeefrance) 27 August 2025
Kylian Mbappe will lead the indictment of Les Blues when they travel to Poland to be in Ukraine on 5 September before they host Iceland in Paris four days later.
Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Aurelien Tchouameni belong to the other Big-Hitters recorded by Deschamps, but people like Benjamin Pavard and Randal Kolo Muani fall from the team.