Zinedine Zidane’s long wait for the France manager’s job is finally over, and his first test as Les Bleus’ leader arrives in Turkey this weekend. The 54-year-old legend, whose second spell at Real Madrid ended in 2021, has spent years preparing for this moment, and his debut in charge will come in a UEFA Nations League match against a Turkey side eager to test the new era. The stakes are high: not just for Zidane’s legacy, but for France’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they’ve already secured a place alongside Argentina, Spain, and Brazil.
What makes this debut particularly intriguing is the squad Zidane has assembled. Among the names are several uncapped players, including Liverpool’s Jérémy Jacquet, Brighton’s Olivier Boscagli, and Sunderland’s Enzo Le Fée—all of whom will be hoping to make an immediate impact. The final 26-man squad will be announced on September 18, but Zidane has already signaled his intent to bring fresh blood into the mix. Matthieu Udol, a RC Lens defender who narrowly missed out for the World Cup, remains in contention, while midfielder Andy Diouf and forward Esteban Lepaul are among the other young talents being considered. The inclusion of these players suggests Zidane’s approach will be one of development, balancing experience with the next generation.
The tactical puzzle Zidane faces is as complex as the squad construction. France’s recent performances under Didier Deschamps—including a World Cup triumph in 2018—have set a high bar, and the transition to a new system will require precision. With Turkey, a team that has shown resilience in recent qualifiers, providing a tough early test, Zidane will need to decide whether to push for a bold, attacking style or adopt a more defensive structure. The Nations League match is not just a warm-up; it’s a litmus test for the squad’s cohesion and Zidane’s ability to navigate the pressures of international football.
Beyond the immediate challenge of the Turkey game, the bigger picture looms: the 2026 World Cup. France’s qualification is already assured, but the real work begins in qualifying for the expanded tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Zidane’s first match is just the beginning of a campaign that will demand tactical ingenuity, player development, and the ability to manage egos—both on and off the pitch. With Kylian Mbappé’s influence still looming large and a squad that includes both veterans and rookies, Zidane’s leadership will be scrutinized like never before.
This is not just a new era for France—it’s a defining moment for Zidane himself. After years in the shadows, his return to the national team as a manager carries the weight of expectation. Whether he can replicate the success of his playing days—or forge an entirely new legacy—will be decided in the coming months. For now, the focus is on Turkey, where Zidane’s first test as France’s head coach begins.
