Laurent Bonadei

In a surprising decision ahead of the upcoming international window, France coach Laurent Bonadei has omitted three of the national team’s most experienced players — captain Wendie Renard, vice-captain Eugénie Le Sommer, and midfielder Kenza Dali — from his Nations League squad.

Bonadei’s side is set to face Switzerland and Iceland in crucial Nations League fixtures, and while speculation had been building over the possible exclusion of the trio, the official announcement still came as a shock to many in the football community.

The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed the decision in a statement, with Bonadei emphasizing that it was not a spur-of-the-moment call. “We’ve been evaluating the squad’s direction and form for some time now. This choice aligns with our long-term vision for the national team,” he explained.

The exclusion casts significant doubt over the participation of Renard, Le Sommer, and Dali in this summer’s European Championship, set to take place in Switzerland. France, considered one of the tournament favourites, has been drawn into a particularly tough group alongside England, the Netherlands, and Wales.

Wendie Renard, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in women’s football, along with Le Sommer and Dali, have been instrumental in France’s recent campaigns. Their absence signals a potential shift in France’s tactical and generational strategy heading into Euro 2025.

Fans and pundits alike will be closely watching Bonadei’s reshaped squad in the upcoming Nations League matches to gauge the team’s readiness for the challenges ahead.