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Zinedine Zidane Begins France Era With Nations League Clash Against Turkey

Posted : 22 September 2026

Zinedine Zidane will take charge of France for the first time on Friday when Les Bleus face Türkiye in their opening UEFA Nations League match of the 2026-27 campaign.

The 54-year-old succeeds Didier Deschamps, ending a long wait to manage the national team. Zidane, who starred for France during their 1998 World Cup triumph and Euro 2000 success, has been away from coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.

During his two spells at Real Madrid, Zidane established an impressive managerial record, including three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018. He turned down club opportunities while waiting for the opportunity to lead France.

Zidane said at his unveiling in July that he had been waiting four or five years for the chance and described taking charge of France as a hugely emotional moment.

The new France boss has indicated that he wants his team to play an attacking style while maintaining balance. His first squad includes several new faces, with Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet, Como midfielder Lucas Da Cunha and Rennes forward Estéban Lepaul among those receiving their first senior call-ups.

Kylian Mbappé will continue as France captain under Zidane. The Real Madrid forward has also spoken positively about working with his former footballing idol, describing the situation as something that feels like a movie.

France's opening Nations League assignment comes against Türkiye on September 25, followed by an away match against Belgium three days later. The team will then host Italy and Belgium at the Stade de France in October.

Zidane's first major international targets will include Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup. For now, however, his immediate focus is on establishing his approach and building a new era for Les Bleus.

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