The France national team has a new face, and he's brimming with both awe and ambition. Esteban Lepaul, the Ligue 1's leading marksman from Rennes, has officially stepped into the hallowed halls of Clairefontaine, marking the start of a truly surreal journey. His debut press conference revealed a player ready to seize his moment.
Key Points:
- Esteban Lepaul expressed immense pride on his maiden France call-up, affirming his belief that his 21 goals for Rennes last season validated his international potential.
- The 26-year-old forward quickly shed any nerves, relishing the opportunity to train under and receive passes from legendary coach Zinedine Zidane.
- Zidane fostered a deep sense of national identity, showing the squad a video highlighting Les Bleus' storied history to embed a "defend the badge" culture.
- Lepaul is laser-focused on earning crucial playing time and bagging his first senior international goal across France's intense four-match schedule.
From Ligue 1's Best to Les Bleus' Newest Star
It's been a whirlwind for Esteban Lepaul. After a phenomenal 2025–26 Ligue 1 campaign where he netted 21 league goals, becoming the division's top scorer, the Rennes forward arrived at Clairefontaine with a quiet confidence. Welcomed by goalkeeping legend Fabien Barthez, Lepaul quickly reunited with former academy teammates, solidifying his place among France's elite.
His prolific form domestically instilled a conviction: "Finishing as the division's top marksman convinced me I belonged at international level," he stated. This isn't just a call-up; it's a validation of relentless hard work.
Zidane's Masterclass: On and Off the Pitch
Lessons from a Legend: Finishing with Zizou
Any initial jitters for Lepaul vanished the moment training commenced under new head coach Zinedine Zidane. Imagine, a young striker receiving direct service from one of football's greatest playmakers! Lepaul described the experience as nothing short of a dream.
"What better way to practice in front of goal than by receiving a few passes from Zinédine Zidane?" Lepaul beamed. "The stress and pressure disappeared very quickly. It's a dream, but I want to be a part of this training camp." This hands-on guidance from Zidane is invaluable for the new arrival.
Forging a Legacy: The Spirit of Les Bleus
Zidane isn't just about the tactics; he's building a culture. Lepaul revealed that the legendary manager orchestrated a powerful team meeting, featuring a video chronicling Les Bleus' rich history. This wasn't just a nostalgic trip; it was a deliberate move to ingrain a fierce pride and understanding of what it means to wear the national shirt.
"He wanted us to understand what it will mean for us. We have to be major players in our own history," Lepaul explained. With a new-look squad, Zidane's focus on heritage ensures every player, old or new, grasps the immense responsibility of representing France.
Eyes on the Goal: A Busy International Window
With four competitive fixtures packed into just 14 days, the schedule is relentless. Esteban Lepaul is fully prepared, expressing absolute confidence in his off-ball work and overall readiness. His primary objective: contribute to team victories and, crucially, bag his first senior goal for France.
Once his international duties conclude, Lepaul will return to Rennes, carrying the invaluable experience and heightened ambition gained from his unforgettable debut with Les Bleus. The future looks incredibly bright for France's newest attacking threat.
