Guendouzi joins France squad against Italy amid injury crisis

The France squad has numerous injury problems ahead of their Nations League clash with Italy, as Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi is a late call-up.

The teams are set to face off in the opening Nations League tie on Friday evening at the Stade de France.

Les Bleus and coach Didier Deschamps have been beset with injury problems in the build-up to the tournament.

France lose several stars for Italy match

Wesley Fofana was initially included in the list for their games against Italy and Belgium, but withdrew and was replaced by Sevilla defender Loic Bade.

Ferland Mendy pulled out following pain in his right leg and the Real Madrid man was replaced by Aston Villa left-back Lucas Digne.

Now Aurelien Tchouameni has also withdrawn from the squad following an injury to his left foot.

Deschamps has instead added Lazio midfielder Guendouzi to the group.

There were also reports that Real Madrid asked for Kylian Mbappé to be rested during this international break, but he was called up anyway.