Zinédine Zidane confirms low-profile role with France

Zinédine Zidane has confirmed that he intends to keep himself in the background as France’s new coach, leaving the spotlight on his players. His arrival carries major expectations because of his standing in French football, but he said he is not seeking that attention and will accept the way the role is viewed.

Adrien Rabiot said Zidane’s status naturally gives him a position above the players in the public view. The France midfielder highlighted the coach’s reputation and influence, while also explaining that Zidane regularly tries to shift attention away from himself. That approach, Rabiot added, can give the squad more room to work without outside focus.

The new coach’s first competitive test comes against Turkey at 20:45 in the opening match of the latest Nations League edition. Rabiot said victory remains France’s main target, with the team’s attacking organisation likely to receive particular scrutiny because of the change in management.

Rabiot also pointed to differences in training methods, sessions and ideas between Zidane and Didier Deschamps, his predecessor. Despite those changes, he said the central responsibility remains unchanged: representing France at the highest level.