Como goalkeeper Jean Butez earns first France call-up at 31
Como goalkeeper Jean Butez became the oldest player to receive a first France call-up in 50 years after replacing the injured Robin Risser.
Como goalkeeper Jean Butez has received a surprise maiden call-up to the France national team at the age of 31. The veteran shot-stopper was drafted into the squad as an emergency replacement for RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser, who withdrew due to injury.
This selection makes Butez the oldest player to earn a first call-up for Les Bleus since Gerard Farison in 1976. The goalkeeper, who previously played for Lille, Mouscron, and Royal Antwerp, received the news via text message immediately after landing from an away match with his current club.
The message on landing was nice. I saw that stat, it’s pretty cool that I’m the one who broke that record. But you’re never too old for your first selection. Obviously, I wasn’t expecting it. Jean Butez
Butez has already completed his first training session with the squad under the guidance of goalkeeping coach Fabien Barthez. He brings extensive experience to Zinedine Zidane's team, having been a key part of Antwerp's domestic treble in 2023. His arrival provides crucial depth ahead of a demanding UEFA Nations League schedule, which includes four matches in just eleven days.