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French team: Zinedine Zidane opposes Didier Deschamps

Zinedine Zidane’s first steps at the head of the Blues are marked by Zinedine Zidane’s desire to stand out from

Published: Tuesday, 22 September 2026 at 12:42 PM
French team: Zinedine Zidane opposes Didier Deschamps
Key Things to Know
  • Zinedine Zidane has taken charge of the French national team, marking a clear break from Didier Deschamps.
  • Zidane is shifting France's tactical setup from a 4-2-3-1 formation to a 4-3-3 system.
  • Kylian Mbappe is set to be repositioned to the left wing under Zidane.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Zinedine Zidane has begun his tenure as head coach of the French national team by implementing significant changes from predecessor Didier Deschamps. Zidane announced his first squad list on Friday before arriving at Clairefontaine on Monday, introducing new players and adopting a more understated arrival routine for the squad.

Tactically, Zidane plans to switch France from a 4-2-3-1 formation to a 4-3-3, moving Kylian Mbappe back to the left wing and testing Andy Diouf at left-back. Journalist Jean-Louis Tourre noted that Zidane has also brought clearer communication during press conferences compared to Deschamps.

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