# Kumbedi gets first France call up to replace injured Kalulu

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/kumbedi-gets-first-france-call-up-to-replace-injured-kalulu/
- Published: 2026-11-09T13:42:40+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-09T21:53:55+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/kumbedi-gets-first-france-call-up-replace-injured-kalulu-6536351
- Topics: Europe, World

## Key points

- Saël Kumbedi earns his first France call-up.
- He replaces injured defender Pierre Kalulu.
- A draw against Italy would secure France’s quarter-final place.

## Summary

France have called up VfL Wolfsburg right-back Saël Kumbedi for the first time, replacing Pierre Kalulu, who has a left hamstring injury. The change comes ahead of two Nations League matches, with France close to securing a place in the quarter-finals.

Kumbedi, 21, has played nine times for France’s under-21 side. France visit Italy in Milan on Thursday and then face Turkey in Bordeaux on Sunday; a draw against Italy would be enough to secure qualification. Jules Koundé is also absent from the squad after suffering an ankle injury.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.