Rennes forward Esteban Lepaul reflected on his dream maiden France call-up under new manager Zinedine Zidane. The Ligue 1 top scorer detailed receiving passes from the icon in training and sitting through an inspiring national team history video.
Como goalkeeper Jean Butez became the oldest player to earn a maiden France call-up in half a century after replacing the injured Robin Risser. The 31-year-old received the surprise call from Zinedine Zidane before training under legendary goalkeeping coach Fabien Barthez.
Kylian Mbappe has been told he should “never talk about the Ballon d’Or”, with fellow World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf telling GOAL why the Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ is coming across as selfish when compared to in-form Barcelona star Raphinha. Mbappe has been talking up his claims to the most prestigious of Golden Balls, but is expected to miss out again in 2026.
Zinedine Zidane has officially begun his journey as the new head coach of the France national team, and the early signs suggest a significant departure from the previous regime. Following his first squad announcement and initial training sessions at Clairefontaine, observers have already noted a distinct change in atmosphere and strategy.
The Frenchman has left Nike behind after two decades and taken a leap of faith by signing with the Swiss sportswear challenger as they expand into football
Dayot Upamecano could not hide his admiration after witnessing Zinedine Zidane showcase his trademark quality during his first training session in charge of France. The Bayern Munich centre-back joined twelve members of the 23-man squad at Clairefontaine on Monday, relishing the chance to absorb wisdom from their celebrated new head coach.
Zinedine Zidane formally launched his tenure in charge of France on Monday by conducting his inaugural training session at Clairefontaine. Chelsea defender Maxence Lacroix could not hide his admiration after stepping onto the pitch alongside the legendary former playmaker as Les Bleus kick off a UEFA Nations League campaign this autumn.
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has moved to dismiss suggestions of a growing rift between himself and France team-mate Ousmane Dembele. The two forwards are set to go head-to-head for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, but Mbappe insists their friendship remains intact despite the high-stakes individual competition.
Kylian Mbappe has expressed his delight at reuniting with Zinedine Zidane, describing the appointment of the new France national team coach as a cinematic moment. The pair first met when the former midfielder invited a young Mbappe to trial at Real Madrid over a decade ago, and they will now work together following the departure of Didier Deschamps.
Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki has expressed his excitement ahead of Zinedine Zidane’s highly anticipated debut as France manager. The 23-year-old is relishing the opportunity to link up with the legendary coach during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane will receive a bespoke and enhanced security detail for his tenure as manager of the France national team. The 1998 World Cup winner requires unprecedented protection to manage the intense fanaticism surrounding his return to Les Bleus following Didier Deschamps' departure.
France
