Zidane redefines the Blues from the first gathering

After twelve years of Didier Deschamps' reign, the French national team (the Bleus) played in a 4‑2‑3‑1 or a 4‑3‑3, while the official arrival of Zinedine Zidane imposes from the first gathering of four matches a new playing and selection philosophy. The change is therefore now!

Style and tactical choices

It must be noted, after this first gathering of four matches, that several differences are noticeable. The choice of system is not the main teaching, because while Didier Deschamps ended his tenure in a 4‑2‑3‑1, he regularly used the 4‑3‑3. Zinedine Zidane, on the other hand, places more emphasis on midfield profiles.

The midfield revolves around Lucas Da Cunha, an excellent ball distributor, a profile that would not have been seen under Deschamps, where Aurélien Tchouaméni would have occupied the sentinel role. Rayan Cherki has been moved one step lower, while Eduardo Camavinga regains his place in the eleven.

The result is three consecutive matches where the Bleus hold about 65 % possession. This ball domination reflects Zidane's desire to impose his style of play.

Renewal of the lines

Zidane has begun a renewal of the full‑backs, the main bet being Andy Diouf, whose performance remains mixed. In central defence, the newcomer is Jérémy Jacquet, who has already established himself as a certainty since the start of the season at Liverpool.

In attack, the arrival of Esteban Lepaul in the squad completes the setup. Kylian Mbappé occupies the left flank, Michael Olise the right side as at Bayern, and Ousmane Dembélé retains his central role, embodying the pressing instructions of the new manager.

It remains to be seen whether, in November, Mbappé will move back to the centre to leave the left side to Désiré Doué, who strikes very hard at the goal. Nothing is set in stone, the Zidane era is only just beginning, but the foundations are now laid.