Manchester United centre-back Leny Yoro has received his first senior call-up to the France squad.
Zinedine Zidane promoted the ‘diligent‘ defender in the 11th hour after an injury setback as Real Madrid’s Ibrahima Konate was forced to pull out with a mild knee sprain.
Yoro was already in Clairefontaine training with the France Under-21 squad before he was called up to the senior side.
Having represented France at every youth level from U17 to U21, he now steps up to the senior squad ahead of France’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
Yoro has featured 70 times for UNited across all competitions, often impressing with his composure, game reading and athleticism.
However, his inexperience sometimes gets the better of him, although that is not unusual for a 20-year-old playing at one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
While originally slated to anchor the Under-21 defence, this unexpected call-up gives Zidane an immediate look at one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders.
This promotion marks the culmination of years of steady progress for Yoro, validating the maturity and leadership qualities that saw him break through at Lille.
Joining a senior squad packed with established defenders offers invaluable learning experience.
Regardless of whether he makes his debut or simply continues his development, his inclusion signals he is firmly part of France’s long-term plans.
