Olivier Boscagli has admitted he was surprised not to be included in Zinedine Zidane's first France squad, after the former PSV crowd favourite was initially included in the preliminary selection.

The international break brought the arrival of several new national team coaches, including Zidane with France and Mark van Bommel with Belgium. Zidane began his tenure with two victories over Belgium and a draw against Italy.

Boscagli, however, did not make the final France squad despite his inclusion in the preliminary group.

Speaking to French newspaper L'Équipe, the former PSV defender acknowledged that he had expected to have a chance, particularly after seeing Zidane give opportunities to several new players.

“You can see that Zidane has given a lot of new players the chance, so then I thought to myself: why not me?” Boscagli said, as quoted by PSV Inside.

The 28-year-old knows that his route back into the France setup ultimately depends on his performances at club level.

“It’s up to me to show the best of myself and then I can only hope that one day comes when I am called up,” Boscagli added.

The defender left PSV in the summer of 2025, joining Brighton & Hove Albion on a free transfer. His first season in England was difficult, but Boscagli has now established himself as a regular at The Seagulls.

His omission from Zidane's first squad therefore leaves the former PSV favourite with a clear objective: continue performing at Brighton and force his way into future France selections.

Another PSV player to make significant progress during the international break was captain Mauro Júnior, who made his official debut for Brazil.

Mauro first appeared against Australia in a 1-1 draw before being handed his first start a few days later in another meeting with Australia. Brazil won that match 4-2.

He then provided his first assist for the Seleção in the 4-0 victory over India under Carlo Ancelotti.

The PSV captain also addressed speculation about a possible future with the Netherlands, making his position clear after representing Brazil.

“Yes, that’s ready, I think. I’m sure of it. My dream has always been to play for the Brazilian national team,” Mauro told ESPN.

“There were some rumors about the Netherlands national team, but of course it was always my dream to play for Brazil. That’s the country where I was born and the country I want to play for.”

Mauro also revealed that his Brazil debut shirt has already been given a special place at home.

“It’s at home. I’ve already had all my teammates sign it. That one will get a special place at my home,” he said.

For Mauro, the international break marked the fulfilment of a long-standing ambition. For Boscagli, meanwhile, Zidane's first France selection has provided another incentive to continue his push for international recognition.