France squad hit as Upamecano leaves camp after red card

This update focuses on France squad Upamecano. The French Football Federation confirmed on Saturday that defender Dayot Upamecano has left the national team camp after being sent off against Italy in the UEFA Nations League.

France squad Upamecano suspended and sent back to Bayern

The Bayern Munich centre-back walked away from the France squad one day after his red card in the 1–1 draw with Italy. The France squad Upamecano will therefore miss Monday’s home game against Belgium at the Stade de France.

He received a second yellow card in the 85th minute for a foul on Italian striker Moise Kean, triggering an automatic suspension for the next official fixture.

The federation said the defender has returned to his club Bayern Munich, where he will resume preparations for the rest of the season.

Zidane’s options shrink again before France–Belgium

This latest setback comes on top of another major absence. Kylian Mbappé had already withdrawn from the squad on 25 September after picking up an injury in Turkey, and has travelled back to Madrid for treatment.

Head coach Zinedine Zidane is now left with 21 players for the final match of this first international window under his leadership.

For Moroccan football fans living in Europe, particularly in France and Belgium, this fixture remains a highlight. The France–Belgium clash at the Stade de France was already attracting attention, and Zidane must now reorganise his defence without one of his key players.

Under Zidane, Les Bleus had started with two 1–0 wins, away in Turkey and then in Belgium. The draw against Italy is the first time his side has dropped points.

Group standings and stakes before facing Belgium

After three rounds of games, France still top their Nations League group on 7 points. Belgium are close behind on 6, with Italy on 4. Turkey sit bottom after three straight defeats.

In the other match of the latest round, Belgium recorded a comfortable 3–0 win over Turkey, helped by a brace from Kevin De Bruyn. The Red Devils will therefore travel to Paris full of confidence.

For many Moroccans abroad, these standings feed daily conversations at work, university or cafés. They follow both the Atlas Lions and the big European national teams, often through the stars they already support at club level in their country of residence.

A close look from Moroccans living in Europe

This development does not change travel plans or consular procedures for Moroccans living abroad, but it does shape the football environment they experience every day. The Nations League fixtures are a recurring talking point with French, Belgian, Italian or Turkish colleagues and friends.

For fans hoping to watch top-level games during stays in Europe, these matches give a sense of the international calendar. Before booking tickets or planning a weekend trip around a game, it is advisable to check:

• the official competition schedule on national federation websites;
• ticket availability and any stadium access rules;
• possible changes to kick-off times or venues decided by organisers.

As France prepare to host Belgium, the France squad Upamecano must adapt defensively. Zinedine Zidane’s choices will be watched closely, including by Moroccan fans spread across Paris, Brussels, Madrid and beyond.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.

For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.