Mahamadou Diawara has left the France U19 squad over new rules preventing Muslim players from fasting during Ramadan
Diawara was selected for the squad ahead of the upcoming internationals but has returned to his club Lyon after learning of the new rules, which are in place from U16 to senior levels.
FFF president Philippe Diallo confirmed that the rules were in place to French newspaper Le Figaro, stating “we do not modify conditions for exercising our selections for religious criteria”.
The rules state that players must follow the usual rhythm of the teams' organisations and operations.
Players who observe Ramadan, which began between March 10-11 and is expected to end around April 10, will not be able to fast while at the country's Clairefontaine training base.
Lyon have confirmed that Diawara has returned to the club.
The FFF has so far not commented when contacted by Sky Sports News.
