France national team: Former international strongly criticizes Zidane after Saël Kumbedi's call-up

Saël Kumbedi's selection for the French national team is already generating reactions. Called up to replace Pierre Kalulu, the 21-year-old right-back, who plays for Wolfsburg in the German second division, is not universally popular. Jérôme Rothen, in particular, has made no secret of his incomprehension regarding Zinedine Zidane's choice.

Speaking on RMC radio, the former Paris Saint-Germain international midfielder was particularly critical of the French national team coach. According to him, wearing the national team jersey should be the reward for convincing performances at the highest club level.

Rothen notably questioned Zidane's monitoring of Kumbedi, believing that the defender's performances in the German second division did not necessarily justify a call-up.

The consultant also made light of the coach's explanations, who reportedly indicated that he knew the player well, having been around him with his son during youth selections.

This justification clearly failed to convince the former French international. With a touch of sarcasm, he suggested that all players who had played alongside Zidane's son in youth teams could now hope to receive a chance with the national team.

This media appearance has reignited the debate on the selection criteria for the French national team and on the relevance of choosing Saël Kumbedi to join the French national team.

🗨️ @rothenjerome on Zidane selecting a player from the German second division: "The French national team is the culmination of an effort and it's something you earn. That earning comes from very high-level performances at club level." https://t.co/hDfSsXiJKB

— Rothen is on fire (@Rothensenflamme)

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