France: Zidane breaks Deschamps' habits with a calendar

Appointed at the end of July as head of the Bleus, Zinédine Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps, who had been in charge of the team for fourteen years, and already announces a break from his habits in France. From his first gathering, he imposes strong choices, both sporting and organisational, ahead of the next call‑up on November 6.

New dynamic and calendar

The French Football Federation has confirmed that “Zizou” will present his second squad on Friday, 6 November at 18:00. The selection will face Italy on 12 November in Milan and then Turkey on 15 November in Bordeaux, as part of the Nations League.

Zidane chose a Friday to unveil the list, recalling his first statement on 18 September, also released on a Friday. In contrast, his predecessor, “DD”, preferred to summon the press on the Thursday preceding the players’ arrival at Clairefontaine. This detail highlights a difference in time management.

By giving himself an extra day, “ZZ” wants to assess the physical condition of the internationals after the Europa League matches. This leeway allows the squad to be adjusted according to the players’ form.

It remains to be seen whether Zidane will retain the new call‑ups from September, among whom are Guillaume Restes, Jérémy Jacquet, Andy Diouf, Lucas Da Cunha, Estéban Lepaul, Jean Butez and Leny Yoro. Their presence could strengthen the depth of the squad.

Two key players, Ousmane Dembélé of PSG and Manu Koné of AS Rome, are injured. Their recovery before the upcoming matches would give Zidane the opportunity to test them.