Lucas Da Cunha faces a physical test with France

Lucas Da Cunha’s first call-up to France rewards a rapid rise at Como, but it also puts the midfielder’s physical limitations under sharper scrutiny. His ability to remain in the national-team group may depend on whether his technical and tactical strengths can offset that weakness against stronger opponents.

The 23-year-old offers several qualities that attracted Zinedine Zidane. He reads spaces well, moves intelligently, uses the ball cleanly and can operate in different positions. His ability to receive and turn, then open passing lanes, has become more effective since Cesc Fabregas moved him into midfield at Como.

Da Cunha’s main concern is his influence in duels. His modest frame limits his power, while he does not provide the same running capacity as some box-to-box midfielders. Those shortcomings can be less visible in Como’s highly organised structure, where his positioning and understanding help him avoid some physical confrontations.

The international environment will offer fewer familiar patterns. France’s approach can change with the opposition, and Da Cunha will have less time to rely on established combinations than he does at club level. His profile as a creative deeper midfielder gives him a route into Zidane’s plans, but adapting that game to the intensity and direct play of international football will be his first major test.