Zinedine Zidane's son facing unrealistic expectations but centre-back told he can 'reach the highest' level amid impressive displays at U20 World Cup

It hasn’t been an easy tournament for Zidane. The Marseille-born defender had a shaky start, conceding a penalty in France’s opening match against Japan. But instead of benching him, coach Diomede stood by his young centre-back, keeping him in the starting XI. That faith paid off as Zidane grew in confidence, becoming one of France’s most reliable players in defence as the team reached the semi-finals.

Zidane started all of France's games at the competition as his commanding presence, aerial dominance, and intelligent positioning have made him a crucial piece of France’s back line.

France U-20 coach Diomede has been vocal about both the promise and the pressure surrounding Zidane Jr., urging patience while acknowledging the expectations that come with his surname. In an interview with L’Equipe, Diomede spoke with both empathy and belief in his young defender’s future.

"As a left-footer, I know how to recognise the quality of a left-footer, and Elyaz has this technical finesse as well as his height . We just have to leave him alone. We've been working for three years to free him up. It's difficult being Zidane's son. We expect a lot from him, certainly too much. We mustn't forget that he's a player from 2005. I'm happy because he's starting to express himself within the team, even if it's very difficult for him. He has the qualities to reach the highest level, he just has to play," said Diomede.

While Zidane is thriving on the international stage, his club career remains a work in progress. Since joining Real Betis' reserve team from Real Madrid’s youth system in January 2024, the 19-year-old has been part of a development project rather than a first-team player. This season, he’s logged only 180 minutes in Spain’s lower divisions, starting twice, against Teruel and Atletico Madrid B. Zidane possesses the physical and technical tools that modern centre-backs need, what he needs to focus on is continuity, something that his U-20 performances might finally earn him when he returns to Spain.

France’s heartbreaking semi-final exit to Morocco was decided by penalties after a tense 1-1 draw. However, this only added to Zidane’s growing experience as he was composed under pressure, leading a defence reduced to 10 men and organising set pieces with remarkable calm for his age. With Diomede’s mentorship and the maturity he’s shown at the U-20 World Cup, Zidane seems poised to take his next step in establishing himself as a key defensive talent.