Lucas da Cunha received his first call-up to the France senior national team from manager Zinédine Zidane for the opening fixtures of the UEFA Nations League, debuting as a starter against Belgium in Brussels. Though the Como midfielder was previously eligible to represent Portugal through his father, he has now permanently locked in his international future with the French setup after making 28 appearances across multiple youth categories for Les Bleus.
Zinédine Zidane Hands Midfielder First France Cap Against Belgium
Born in Roanne, Da Cunha grew up in a household of passionate Saint-Étienne supporters before establishing his club career in Italy. Following a standout spell with Como under manager Cesc Fàbregas, the player helped drive the club’s rise from Italy’s Serie B up to the UEFA Champions League. That club trajectory caught the attention of the French coaching staff, leading directly to his selection and his start in Brussels.
By stepping onto the pitch for his first cap in a competitive fixture, the former youth international crossed the threshold that permanently ties his senior career to the French national team.
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Closing the Door on Portugal Eligibility
Dual nationality previously kept open the possibility of a senior career with the Portugal national team, given his paternal heritage. However, that pathway remained highly improbable in practical terms. Having already represented France through 28 matches in various youth development ranks, a promotion to the senior setup was treated as an inevitable progression within the French football federation.
Once a player steps onto the field in a competitive fixture for a senior national team, FIFA regulations permanently bind their allegiance to that association. With his appearance against Belgium, any theoretical chance of switching federations to represent Portugal vanished.
Como’s Rise to European Competition
The midfielder’s elevation to the senior national team mirrors the rapid ascent of his club side. Under the direction of Cesc Fàbregas, Como transformed from a Serie B contender into a fixture in the UEFA Champions League. Consistent performances in domestic Italian fixtures and on the continental stage provided the platform necessary to break into one of the most competitive national pools in world football.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Call-Up
Why is Lucas da Cunha no longer eligible to play for Portugal?
While he was previously eligible through his Portuguese father, playing in an official senior competitive match for France permanently ties his international career to the French federation under FIFA rules.
Which club does Lucas da Cunha play for?
He plays as a midfielder for Como, helping the Italian side climb from Serie B to the UEFA Champions League.
Who selected Lucas da Cunha for the France senior team?
Manager Zinédine Zidane called him up to the senior squad for the UEFA Nations League matches.
Against which country did he make his senior international debut?
He made his first appearance as a starter in Brussels against Belgium.
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