Zidane at the helm of France, Mbappé captain against Turkey

Zinédine Zidane is about to take charge of the Bleus for his first official match, Friday at 20:45 against Turkey in the Nations League, with Kylian Mbappé named captain. The new manager wants to impose his rules, marking the start of a different era for France.

Zidane's first official match

Zinédine Zidane's big debut as manager of the French national team is imminent. Friday, the new boss of the Bleus will be in charge to lead his side against Turkey at 20:45, as part of the first matchday of the Nations League. This match marks the first test of Zidane's philosophy on the international stage.

Kylian Mbappé has been appointed captain for this match. The choice of Mbappé as captain reflects the manager's confidence in his leadership. His role as leader will be scrutinized as the manager seeks to establish a new dynamic within the squad.

Obraniak analyses Zidane's style

Ludovic Obraniak says that “Zizou” will impose his rules on all players, regardless of their status. The commentator from the channel L’Équipe elaborated his view on Wednesday, recalling that people said Zidane was traditional and would follow in Didier Deschamps' footsteps, but today he is taking back control, asserting that the star is him.

Zidane's bold overhaul ends Deschamps' fourteen-year reign for Les Bleus

Obraniak also mentions how the new boss might position the captain. “He has the potential, for at least a year, to say: ‘Mbappé, you will go left.’ And (Kylian) Mbappé will say: ‘Yes sir, I will do my best,’” he said. Obraniak points out that this directive illustrates the authority Zidane wants to wield from the first match.

End of the Deschamps era according to Obraniak

The commentator compares the end of Didier Deschamps' tenure to a loss of control over the players, citing the example of Dembélé being moved to a different position despite his qualities. He asserts that Zidane will not be accommodating, stating: “Today, Zidane is not accommodating. He arrives and says: ‘You, common sense shows that you have always been better there…’”

Mbappé absent from the conference, Zidane reassures about his form

Thus, Zidane appears to want to establish a discipline based on merit rather than on reputation. The match should provide many answers and multiple clues about the future composition and dynamics of the French national team under Zidane.