Zinédine Zidane names Ousmane Dembélé vice‑captain of the Bleus

When unveiling his first squad, the new coach of the France team, Zinedine Zidane, announced that he would rely on “four captains”. Among them, the Bondy native Ousmane Dembélé was named vice‑captain, alongside Kylian Mbappé, Adrien Rabiot and Jules Koundé.

The choice of leaders

Zidane confirmed that Kylian Mbappé would remain the main captain, as under the Didier Deschamps era. The three lieutenants were chosen from the most capped players in the group: Dembélé (67 caps), Rabiot (66) and Koundé (56). This decision builds on continuity with Real Madrid, where Zidane has already entrusted similar responsibilities.

A first for Dembélé and Rabiot

For Ousmane Dembélé and Adrien Rabiot, this is a first appointment as vice‑captain. Jules Koundé, on the other hand, was already vice‑captain under Didier Deschamps, making him the only one to retain the role.

Zidane hands the armband to Dembélé, Rabiot and Koundé

Context and alternatives

Among the senior players who could have claimed this status are Mike Maignan (48 caps) and Dayot Upamecano (46 caps). Aurélien Tchouaméni, although present in the squad, was not selected because he started his season late with Real Madrid. Zidane’s choice reinforces the place of Dembélé, Rabiot and Koundé within the group, positioning them as undisputed starters, except for Koundé who remains slightly contested against Pierre Kalulu for the right‑back position.