Mansion Sports – Zinedine Zidane is ready to open a new chapter in his storied career as he prepares for his first match as France head coach.

The legendary figure, who took charge of the team after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, admitted to feeling a deep emotional connection with his new role ahead of the UEFA Nations League match against Turkey.

Zidane’s return to the international stage as a coach has been highly anticipated.

After years of being recognized as one of France’s greatest players, he now stands in the technical area and is directly responsible for the direction of Les Bleus. The match against Turkey marks the beginning of a new journey filled with high expectations.

A New Era for Les Bleus

Zidane has officially returned to the spotlight of international football, this time moving from the pitch to the technical area.

As he prepares to lead France in their Nations League match against Turkey, the former Real Madrid coach was asked whether the moment felt as significant as his debut as a player for his country more than three decades ago.

“Maybe even more than that,” Zidane said with a smile on Thursday ahead of the Nations League match in Turkey. “I feel incredible emotion at being the coach of this France team.”

The change marks the end of the long era under Didier Deschamps, who led the team for 14 years and guided the country to World Cup glory in 2018.

Zidane’s appointment fulfills a long-held dream while bringing one of the country’s most iconic figures back into the national team.

His legendary status grew even stronger in 1998 when he scored twice in the World Cup final, and he now faces the task of maintaining the high standards previously set by his former teammate on the world stage.

Expectations and Leadership

After achieving remarkable success at club level by leading Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, Zidane fully understands that the French public expects immediate results. The spotlight remains firmly on every step he takes as he transitions into national team management.

“This is something new. I have taken over as head coach, so people are talking about it,” he said. “That makes sense.”

Despite the immense attention surrounding his appointment, Zidane remains focused on the task at hand.

Kylian Mbappe is expected to lead the team on the pitch as captain, although he was not present at the pre-match press conference.

Midfielder Adrien Rabiot accompanied the coach in his place, prompting questions about the superstar forward’s readiness.

Zidane quickly dismissed concerns regarding his key player. “There is one player and one coach,” Zidane said. “[Mbappe] is fine. He will be ready to play tomorrow.”

New Faces in the Squad

Zidane wasted no time putting his own stamp on the squad, introducing six new players to the senior team.

The squad includes exciting young talents such as Manchester United defender Leny Yoro and Liverpool’s Jeremy Jacquet.

Other players who could make their debuts include Esteban Lepaul, Lucas Da Cunha, Andy Diouf, and goalkeeper Guillaume Restes.

This blend of youth and experience is an important part of Zidane’s vision for the future of the national team as they face a demanding Nations League schedule.

The coach said he was pleased with how the new group adapted during their first training session.

“I’m happy with what I’ve seen so far. The France team is open to everyone,” said the 54-year-old Zidane. “We have a good squad, some experienced players, some new players.”

Focus on Football

Rabiot noted that having such a prominent figure as Zidane has actually reduced some of the pressure felt by the players.

The magnitude of “Zizou’s” aura means media attention often focuses on the bench rather than the dressing room.

“His aura means he gets a lot of attention,” Rabiot said. “In one sense, it’s good that more of the focus is on the coach rather than the players. It gives them a little more calm and space.”

Despite all the excitement and romanticism surrounding his return, Zidane remains a pragmatist. He understands that his legacy as a coach will be determined by victories, rather than his reputation as a player.

After the trip to Turkey, France will face a challenging run of matches, including fixtures against Belgium and Italy.

“You have to accept the circumstances as they are. But I’m not here for that,” he said. “Winning matches is what interests me most.”

Zidane’s return as France coach has finally entered its tangible stage. From the figure who once led Les Bleus on the pitch to now standing in the technical area, he faces a new chapter with high expectations.

The match against Turkey will be his first step toward implementing that vision and reshaping the French team in the direction he wants.