Zinédine Zidane has officially launched his tenure as head coach of the France national team, unveiling a 23-man squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures while confirming Kylian Mbappé as his captain. The 1998 World Cup winner, who succeeded Didier Deschamps over the summer, made his mark early by blending an established international core with fresh domestic and European talent. Facing a demanding schedule that features encounters against Turkiye on September 25, Belgium on September 28, Italy on October 2, and a second clash with Belgium on October 5, Zidane’s first selection sets a clear baseline for Les Bleus.
Appearing before the press to announce his roster, Zidane swiftly put to rest any lingering questions regarding the leadership armband by reaffirming Mbappé’s status as captain. At 27, the Real Madrid forward headlines a potent attacking force alongside Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola. The midfield and defensive ranks feature familiar world-class performers, including Eduardo Camavinga, Rayan Cherki, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Adrien Rabiot, Manu Koné, Pierre Kalulu, Ibrahima Konaté, Jules Koundé, Maxence Lacroix, Adrien Truffert, Dayot Upamecano, and goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
While relying on tested international figures, Zidane has actively dipped into the French talent pool by handing first-time senior call-ups to five uncapped players. Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet earns his inaugural inclusion in the national side during the absence of William Saliba, accompanied in defence by Inter Milan full-back Andy Diouf. In goal, Toulouse’s Guillaume Restes and Lens shot-stopper Robin Risser join the group, alongside Como playmaker Lucas Da Cunha, who earns his place following strong performances in Serie A.
Further highlighting Zidane’s willingness to reward form, Rennes forward Estéban Lepaul makes the final list after finishing as Ligue 1’s top scorer last season. The inclusion of these emerging talents underlines a calculated effort from the new manager to refresh the national setup ahead of the cycle leading toward Euro 2028. By balancing proven match-winners with ambitious newcomers, Zidane aims to build tactical flexibility and depth right from his opening match block.
The upcoming Nations League schedule presents a stern initiation for Zidane’s managerial reign, starting with the home fixture against Turkiye before navigating high-stakes tests against Belgium and Italy. With his 23-man group now locked in, the focus shifts to how the former Real Madrid boss shapes his tactical system on the pitch. The arrival of new faces alongside established figures offers a clear statement on how France intends to navigate this new era.
