Zinedine Zidane faces a dilemma before the France‑Belgium duel
Under the stadium lights, Zinedine Zidane watches from the bench of the French side, three days after the narrow 0‑1 victory in Turkey. This Monday evening, France will face Belgium in the Nations League, a crucial test for the new manager nicknamed “Zizou”.
France faces Belgium in the Nations League
Three days after the limited success against Turkey, the French side are preparing to meet Belgium. Zidane, on the bench, will have to adjust his setup for this decisive duel. The match, scheduled for Monday evening, marks the second act of his tenure.
In attack, the absence of Kylian Mbappé, injured on his left knee and back in Madrid, forces the manager to find a replacement. The lack of the star striker leaves a void that the coach will have to fill quickly. This situation complicates the French side’s offensive build‑up.
In midfield, Zidane must identify the right formula for his players to dictate the tempo. Without this control, it will be difficult to compete with Spain, world and European champions. The tactical challenge therefore remains significant.
Samir Nasri criticises the lack of identity
Samir Nasri believes that Spain “is really the only nation you definitely must not bring into a debate”, according to the Late Football Club on Canal+. He adds that “Spain is a kids’ style of play. They all know how to play as a team”.
Nasri goes on to say that “France has no playing identity”. He compares the situation to England, asserting that both nations share the same difficulties. “You can put eleven new players and a new manager, the Spanish team will play the same way. That’s their playing identity,” he emphasizes.
A consultant from the encrypted channel notes that the current generation is full of offensive talents capable of shining in moments, but lacks midfielders who can feed those forwards. “We don’t have midfielders who can supply these guys up front with the ball. We lack control of the game,” he explains.
The consultant recalls a five‑minute possession sequence against Turkey, but notes that the French side never “took hold of the match and decided its fate”. He concludes: “So, for Zidane, I will wait a bit. That’s what I hope to see, but when I look at the players he has, it will be complicated in midfield.”