Esteban Lepaul is on fire this season, and the football world is taking notice. The 26-year-old Stade Rennais striker, fresh off another impressive Ligue 1 campaign, has set his sights on the ultimate prize: representing France on the international stage.

With 19 goals and 5 assists in 30 appearances, Lepaul currently leads the Ligue 1 scoring charts, putting him firmly in the conversation for a spot in Didier Deschamps' squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His closest rival for the golden boot, Strasbourg's Joaquin Panichelli, trails with 16 goals but is sidelined with an injury, leaving Lepaul in a strong position with just two games remaining.

When asked about his national team prospects ahead of Rennais' upcoming clash against Paris FC, Lepaul didn't mince words. "It's the holy grail to be called up to the French national team," he said during the press conference. But the forward remains grounded, adding, "If I get called up, great. If not, as I've always done, I will keep working every day to try and get there."

For fans and aspiring players alike, Lepaul's journey is a reminder that consistency and hard work can open doors to the highest levels of the game. Whether he earns that coveted call-up or not, his performances this season have already made him a name to watch.