France’s immigration history has resulted in many players being eligible to represent the country. But, not all of them go forth with the decision due to the vast number of players. So, here are the top 5 players who are eligible to represent France but chose not to do so.
5. Kalidou Koulibaly
Koulibaly represents Senegal on the national level, and was named the footballer of the year in 2017 and 18. He is fast, strong and amazing in the air and has the best profile to play for Didier Deschamps. However, the Napoli centre-back stated he has no regrets regarding his decision.
4. Gonzalo Higuain
Higuain is the sixth-highest goalscorer of all time for the Argentina national team. Featuring for Real Madrid, Juventus and Napoli during his prime, the striker had the opportunity to play for France but ultimately chose to represent Argentina.
3. Riyad Mahrez
Mahrez is hailed as the pride of Algeria, and chose to represent the African nation over France as a tribute to his late father. The player was named the African Player of the Year in 2016, and featured in Leicester’s title winning campaign. He now plies his trade under Pep Guardiola for Manchester City.
2. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Aubameyang, like his father, is the captain of the Gabon national team. He has earned 66 caps for the country and has scored 27 goals, making him the top scorer of all time for the country. Interestingly, he was eligible to represent France, Spain as well as Italy but chose to follow in his father’s footsteps.
1. Aymeric Laporte
Laporte was among the best players in the world to have not had a single national cap to their name up until recently. He was born in France but moved to Spain at 16, which resulted in him receiving dual citizenship. And in Euro 2020, he made his debut for the Spanish national team.
