Zidane bets on France, but the duel at the Roi Baudouin is crucial
© Photo News – Zinedine Zidane, now the manager of France (FRA), is set to face Belgium's Red Devils (BEL) this Monday at the King Baudouin Stadium. Three days after the 0-2 win in Italy at the start of the new Nations League campaign, the clash looks decisive.
The French manager's choice
After the dismissal of Domenico Tedesco, the technical director of the Belgian Union, Vincent Mannaert initially considered Zinedine Zidane as a successor. According to La Dernière Heure, the Belgian contacted Zidane before Rudi Garcia, but the Frenchman was only interested in the role of manager of the Bleus.
Two years later, Zidane arrives at the King Baudouin Stadium in the French manager's suit, ready to challenge the Red Devils. This is the 79ᵉ duel between the two sides, with an almost even record: 30 Belgian wins, 29 French successes and 19 draws.
Zidane's statements before the clash
Vincent Mannaert met Zidane in 2015 in Bruges, during a coaching training camp. “That’s why I think he will be a great manager,” he emphasized, admiring the humility and talent of the Frenchman's “people manager”.
Zidane scares off the spotlights: no catwalk, no hairdresser for Les Bleus
In Sunday’s press conference, Zidane described the meeting as “difficult”. He announced “some changes” to the squad, noting that the Bleus will play four matches in a short period and that he hopes to improve ball recovery.
With captain Kylian Mbappé unavailable, the armband will go to Ousmane Dembélé. “It would be crazy not to use his experience,” Zidane insisted, adding that Dembélé has energy and leadership, even if not all four matches are played.
The Red Devils, bolstered by the victory in Italy on Friday during Mark van Bommel’s first match, approach the duel with confidence. “Belgium has a new generation with a new coach,” the Belgian manager said, highlighting the difficulty of the challenge.
Lizarazu praises Zidane's tactical gamble at the helm of the Bleus
The Google Live service provides real‑time statistics and line‑ups, streamed live for supporters. The upcoming clash, scheduled for this Monday, will be decisive for the continuation of the Nations League.