Marcus Thuram preferred to Esteban Lepaul by France

Marcus Thuram has been preferred to Esteban Lepaul in the latest France selection debate, making the Inter Milan centre-forward the leading choice as new coach Zinedine Zidane prepares his first major list. France’s return is scheduled for late September in the Nations League, with Turkey, Belgium and Italy cited as possible opponents.

Thuram, 29, offers experience at the highest level. He is the reigning Italian champion with Inter, plays in the Champions League each season and reached the World Cup final four years ago. His club career also includes spells at Borussia Mönchengladbach, Guingamp and Sochaux.

Lepaul’s case is built on his Ligue 1 production. He has been the division’s leading scorer over the past season and began the new campaign well, but he has not played in the Champions League. That contrast has strengthened the argument for Thuram despite criticism of his France performances.

One opinion holds that Thuram has remained anonymous for the national team, apart from a 20-minute contribution in 2022, and that Lepaul should be tested instead. The opposing view gives greater weight to Thuram’s club honours and major-tournament experience. Zidane could still include both players, but the current preference places Thuram ahead of Lepaul.