France: Guillaume Restes could start against Italy

France could give Guillaume Restes a major opportunity against Italy, with the Toulouse goalkeeper under consideration to start at the Stade de France. A place ahead of Mike Maignan would mark another significant step for the 21-year-old, who has represented France from the under-17s through the Olympic team and impressed during training.

Zinedine Zidane has kept his starting lineup uncertain despite having his full squad available. The France coach made nine changes for the 1-0 win over Belgium after the 1-0 victory in Turkey, but several senior players are expected to return for the meeting with Italy. Restes is the main late selection question, with the rest of the team also subject to competition in midfield and defence.

Ousmane Dembélé is expected to return in attack and could wear the captain’s armband alongside Michael Olise and Désiré Doué. Manu Koné, Lucas Da Cunha and Rayan Cherki are competing for midfield roles, while Dayot Upamecano should retain his place in central defence. Leny Yoro and Jérémy Jacquet are candidates to partner him, with Jules Koundé and Adrien Truffert favoured at full-back.

Restes has already made more than 100 appearances for Toulouse despite his age. His possible promotion against Italy would therefore reflect both his club experience and his recent work with the national team.