Esteban Le Paul Faces Backlash After First France Call-Up Under Zinedine Zidane

Stade Rennais forward Esteban Le Paul has faced online backlash after expressing his deep affection for France following his maiden call-up to the national team under head coach Zinedine Zidane.

Passion for the National Anthem and Country

In a video published by his club, Le Paul made no secret of his emotions.

I love France, and I do not mean football, I love my country. I think France is so beautiful, our culture is amazing. I love France because of its history and because of everything... I love this country.

The striker also shared his special connection to the French national anthem, the Marseillaise, noting that he used to sing it every morning as a child and dreamed of performing it on the international stage.

Online Controversy and Political Reactions

Some social media users interpreted his patriotic remarks as an expression of right-wing or even far-right views, labeling him with terms such as racist, fascist, and pur souche. Le Paul himself did not mention any political party, candidate, or ideology.

The controversy expanded after former French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal defended the player, arguing that expressing love for one's country should not provoke such reactions. Politician Amaury Duru from the National Rally also condemned the attacks against the young forward.

Personal Tragedy and Resilience

Behind Le Paul's joyful milestone lies a difficult personal story. The striker lost his father, Fabrice, in 2020 following a severe car accident. Fabrice was also a professional footballer who won a league title with Auxerre in 1996.

As an only child, Esteban had to make the agonizing decision to disconnect his father from life support. After seeking psychological help years later, Le Paul managed to advance to the top of his career, finishing last season as the top scorer in the French league with 21 goals. He dedicates every goal to his late father by looking up at the sky.