Manu Koné marvels at Zinédine Zidane's technique at Clairefontaine
In the verdant grounds of Clairefontaine, the French watch the new manager, Zinédine Zidane, directing the drills, while the countdown shows 72 hours before the duel against Italy at the Stade de France. The players, used to more modest training sessions, are immediately struck by the precision of the coach’s gesture. It is a scene that quickly spread through the squad.
Manu Koné's Reaction
Manu Koné recalled this Wednesday, during a press conference at Clairefontaine, his amazement at his coach’s technical mastery. “What shocked me was his technical palette in training,” he said, emphasizing that nothing had changed with the Frenchman. He added that he listens to every piece of advice from Zidane and feels responsible for meeting the manager’s expectations.
“He hasn’t lost anything, and seeing him in person is even better,” Koné continued, noting that the coach’s technique must be “incredible for his era.” He said that Zidane advises him on positioning, the team’s balance and gives him more responsibilities. These remarks show a growing confidence between the player and the manager.
Team Management by Zidane
After the initial surprise, the squad seems to have adapted to Zidane’s human and sincere style, former Real Madrid coach. The players appreciate his close approach, where he speaks both individually and collectively, and where he relies on feeling to free the game. He even dissected Roma’s midfield, set in a low block, during a training session in Turkey on Friday.
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“He manages us in a very human, very sincere way, he is very close to the players,” said another Frenchman, emphasizing that Zidane speaks individually and encourages playing as usual. This method has, according to them, strengthened confidence and naturalness on the pitch.
The French’s first training in Belgium, after the 1‑0 win in Turkey, was shared on social media, showing the squad’s relaxed atmosphere. The players, now at ease, benefit from a larger staff compared to the Didier Deschamps era, who preferred a tight circle.
“It’s a slightly larger staff. They respond to every request, whether it’s for medical care or instructions on the pitch,” said a squad member. This organization allows the new players to quickly gain confidence, as shown by the fluidity of recent performances.
In conclusion, the new dynamic established by Zinédine Zidane, praised by Manu Koné and his teammates, could play a decisive role in the upcoming clash against Italy at the Stade de France.