Stade Rennais FC forward Estéban Lepaul has received a pre-call-up to the France national team from new manager Zinédine Zidane. The news, reported by RMC on Wednesday, puts the 26-year-old on the radar of the legendary coach ahead of his official squad announcement on 18 September.
Why is Lepaul on Zidane's radar?
Last season, Estéban Lepaul scored 21 goals in Ligue 1, with 20 of those coming for Stade Rennais FC. That output has naturally drawn attention. His start to the 2026-2027 campaign confirms his sharpness, with three goals in the first three league matches. He scored against PSG on 23 August (2-2) and netted a double against Le Mans on 30 August (3-2). His goalscoring form is the key factor bringing him close to a first cap.
David Bettoni, one of Zidane's assistants, was reportedly seen at the Raymond-Kopa stadium last Sunday to watch the Angers-Stade Rennais FC match (2-1), where Lepaul featured. The player, who previously played for Angers before moving to Brittany, is keeping his focus on the daily grind. "I'll tell you the same thing as every week, I'm going to keep working, keep playing good matches, keep scoring goals and if there's to be a pre-selection or selection, that will be perfect," he told L'Equipe.
What is the France schedule and its impact on Stade Rennais?
Zinédine Zidane will reveal his first list on 18 September. It may be larger than the traditional 23-man squad because Les Bleus face four Nations League matches in less than two weeks. The gathering starts with a trip to Turkey on 25 September. France then plays Belgium on 28 September, Italy on 2 October, and Belgium again on 5 October.
This international window could alter the usual schedule for Stade Rennais FC players. While the squad is set for a week off at the start of the break, Lepaul's schedule will differ if he is selected. His last outing for the club before the pause was the Europa League match against Sturm Graz on 16 September.
What does this pre-call-up mean for the club?
A potential call-up for Estéban Lepaul would be significant news for Stade Rennais FC. The club could then have two internationals in its ranks, boosting its profile. This individual recognition also rewards the club's sporting policy, which has successfully use the striker's talent since his arrival.
To see the full Stade Rennais squad, visit our squad page. The club's league campaign can be followed in the standings.
Stade Rennais FC return to action on 19 September with a trip to Lyon, a key fixture in the European race. Lepaul will approach that game aiming to maintain his form and secure his spot in Zidane's final list.
