Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta earns first France senior call-up | OneFootball

Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta has earned his first call-up to the France senior squad after being included in Didier Deschamps’ selection for the October World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Iceland.

The 28-year-old has been in excellent form under Oliver Glasner, scoring four times in all competitions this season and playing a central role in Palace’s unbeaten start to the Premier League campaign.

His progress has not gone unnoticed, with Deschamps turning to him at a time when several of France’s established attacking options are unavailable.

Randal Kolo Muani, Marcus Thuram and Ousmane Dembele are all sidelined with injury, leaving opportunities for players who have impressed at club level.

Mateta has long been involved with the national setup, representing France at every youth level and featuring prominently at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he helped his country win a silver medal.

His international breakthrough comes more than a decade into his senior career, reflecting both his persistence and the significant improvement in his game since Glasner took charge at Selhurst Park.

The striker has scored 27 league goals since February 2024, with only Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak registering more in that period.

Speaking about his decision, Deschamps praised Mateta’s qualities and suggested his inclusion had been building for some time. “It will be his first time with the senior team, though he is not exactly young,” the France coach said.

“He has gone through all the youth teams and he has a knack for scoring goals. His profile is interesting, he has been in good form, and what he showed at the Olympics last year confirmed his qualities.”

France will play Azerbaijan at the Parc des Princes on 10 October before travelling to face Iceland three days later.

Deschamps’ side currently top Group D after opening victories and will be strong favourites to extend their lead. Mateta is expected to compete for minutes alongside captain Kylian Mbappe, Christopher Nkunku and Hugo Ekitike.

For Palace, the call-up is further recognition of the progress being made under Glasner. Mateta’s development into a consistent Premier League striker underlines the Austrian’s influence and strengthens the club’s reputation as a platform for international football.

With his contract running until 2027 but renewal talks yet to advance, Palace will hope the confidence gained from a France debut can help secure his long-term future at Selhurst Park.