Zinedine Zidane has officially kicked off his tenure as France head coach, unveiling his first squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign. Taking the reins following Didier Deschamps’ departure after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Zidane faces the immediate mandate of guiding an exceptionally talented group back into the winners’ circle. Speaking at the French Football Federation headquarters, the new manager outlined his intention to build upon past successes while making decisive personnel adjustments ahead of Les Bleus’ opening fixture against Turkey on September 25.
Demonstrating a clear vision for the squad’s evolution, Zidane named five new faces in his initial selection while calling time on veteran international careers for Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. Zidane explained that the incoming players fully earned their places through merit and performance, adding that he wants to actively see this fresh unit compete on the pitch. Addressing his decision to move forward without Kante, a cornerstone of the 2018 World Cup-winning side, Zidane emphasized that the choice was not a reflection of individual ability, describing the midfielder as extraordinary and magnificent. He further clarified that his trimmed-down list was practical, stating he simply didn’t want players sitting in the stands during matchdays.
Among the tactical shifts signal-boosted by the new manager is the role of Andy Diouf. Though Diouf operates in midfield for Inter Milan, Zidane confirmed the player will be utilized differently within the national team setup, praising his profile while plotting a distinct operational role for France. The squad maintains significant defensive experience, reinforced by the inclusion of Paris Saint-Germain duo Lucas Digne, who boasts 64 caps, and Lucas Hernandez, with 42 caps. Outlining his primary objective, Zidane declared that he will rely on his proven methods while maintaining continuity to ensure Les Bleus keep winning at the highest level.
This transition marks the end of Deschamps’ long-standing tenure, which began in 2012 and featured victories at the 2018 World Cup with a 4-2 win over Croatia, the 2020/21 UEFA Nations League title against Spain, and runner-up finishes at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup. Following a semifinal run at the 2026 World Cup that culminated in a 6-4 third-place match defeat to England, France now pivot toward a demanding autumn schedule. Following their match against Turkey, Les Bleus travel to face neighboring Belgium before hosting consecutive high-profile fixtures against Italy and Belgium at the Stade de France.
