France: Lepaul still injured, return to Bleus receding

Lepaul has missed over two weeks with a left ankle sprain and is unlikely to recover in time for France's next squad announcement on Friday.

Esteban Lepaul has been sidelined for more than 15 days following a left ankle sprain sustained on 18 October against Paris FC. He has already missed Juventus away, plus Ligue 1 matches against Strasbourg and Nice, and will not be available for Wednesday's Europa League fixture against Olympiacos.

Rennes manager Franck Haise confirmed Lepaul is still unable to train or touch the ball. Medical scans showed no major structural damage, but the player continues to experience discomfort that prevents his return. Internally, the club estimates a full recovery could take three weeks, which would extend beyond the international break.

Zinédine Zidane will announce France's squad for the next Nations League gathering on Friday. Lepaul, capped twice since his September debut, is now unlikely to be included.