Thauvin returns as Barcola withdraws from France squad with injury

Bradley Barcola has withdrawn from the France squad due to a lingering right hamstring problem sustained during Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League clash with Atalanta.

The French forward has since featured for the club, though he came off in the 59th minute during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Lille.

He’s been replaced by Florian Thauvin, who makes his return to Les Bleus more than six years after his last international appearance.

Thauvin, who is currently plying his trade for Ligue 1 side RC Lens, has registered two goals in France’s top tier this season, having made the switch from Serie A side Udinese during the summer transfer window.

Bradley Barcola, who’s been dealing with a chronic right hamstring issue since the Champions League match against Atalanta, is replaced by @FlorianThauvin. He returns to Les Bleus 6 years and 3 months after his last cap #FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/SmHy8za5AD

— French Team (@FrenchTeam) October 6, 2025

Meanwhile, Barcola has enjoyed a solid start to the season, netting three goals in six Ligue 1 appearances.

France, who currently sit top of Group D with two wins from two, are preparing for upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Iceland.