Zinedine Zidane impresses France squad in training after taking over as manager

Technical display during squad training

France national team head coach Zinedine Zidane participated directly in squad training sessions, displaying technical ball skills that surprised his players. The 54-year-old manager demonstrated precision and control during team drills as France prepared for their upcoming fixtures. AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné spoke publicly about observing his head coach during these training exercises. Koné noted that the former French international has maintained high physical and technical conditioning despite retiring from professional football twenty years ago. The midfielder explained that watching Zidane's ball control in person was particularly striking given the manager's age, reflecting on how formidable Zidane was during his prime playing days.

During training sessions, his technical skills shocked me. He hasn't lost his form at all. Seeing it in person makes an even bigger impression, especially considering his age. I was very young when he ended his career, and seeing the technique he has now, how incredible he must have been at his peak.

Tactical advice and midfield development

Koné described playing under Zidane's management as a distinct privilege, characterizing the French coach as an established legend of world football. The AS Roma midfielder explained that Zidane has afforded him greater positional freedom on the pitch, which has boosted his confidence during international fixtures. Given Zidane's extensive background as a world-class midfielder, Koné stated that he focuses closely on every instruction provided by the manager. Zidane regularly advises Koné on his pitch positioning and tactical discipline, delegating more responsible roles to the midfielder during match preparations.

He allowed me more freedom in my play, and that gave me confidence. He was a midfielder himself, so I listen to everything he says. I can learn a lot from him. He often advises me on positioning on the pitch, gives me more responsible tasks.

Zidane's playing achievements and coaching debut

Zidane officially debuted as the head coach of the French national team last week, taking charge of the national squad after an extensive playing career. During his time on the pitch, he achieved the highest international honours, winning both the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship with France, and receiving the Ballon d'Or award in 1998. His competitive playing career concluded at the 2006 World Cup final against Italy, an encounter that ended in defeat for France and saw Zidane dismissed with a red card. Twenty years after that final match, he returns to the national team structure in the managerial position.

Nations League results and upcoming Italy clash

France currently occupies first place in Nations League Group A1 after collecting victories in both of their opening two rounds. The French squad recorded successive 1-0 wins, first against Belgium and subsequently against Turkey, to establish an early group lead. The team now turns its attention to Friday, when France will host Italy in front of a home crowd. The match against Italy offers France the opportunity to extend their winning streak in Group A1 under Zidane's leadership.