Mbappe Welcomes Zidane as New France Coach
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
France forward Kylian Mbappe has described the appointment of Zinedine Zidane as the national team’s new head coach as a remarkable moment, recalling that the two first met when he was a teenager.
Zidane is set to take charge of France for the first time after replacing Didier Deschamps. His first match will be against Turkey in the Nations League on Friday in Izmit.
Mbappe recalled meeting Zidane during a trial with Real Madrid’s youth setup when he was around 13 or 14 years old. Zidane later helped him visit Real Madrid’s training facilities.
The France captain said it was unusual to now have Zidane as his national team coach, describing the situation as something that could come from a movie.
France Begin New Era
Zidane’s appointment marks the beginning of a new period for the French national team following Deschamps’ long spell in charge.
France are preparing for Euro 2028, with the Nations League providing their first competitive fixtures under the new coach. The team is scheduled to face Turkey, Belgium and Italy during the upcoming international period.
Mbappe said the squad has a two-year period to prepare for the European Championship and will use the upcoming matches to begin working under the new coaching staff.
He acknowledged that adapting to a new coach would be different for players who had spent many years working under Deschamps, but expressed confidence about the transition.
Mbappe Focuses on Real Madrid
Mbappe has also made a strong start to the new club season with Real Madrid, scoring eight goals in his first eight appearances across competitions.
He did not score in Real Madrid’s recent 2-1 derby defeat against Atletico Madrid.
Real Madrid are seeking to challenge for major trophies this season after going through two campaigns without winning a major title. Mbappe said the team needed to improve its performances and work towards restoring its momentum.
Asked about the refereeing during the derby, Mbappe said he had his own views but preferred not to publicly criticise officials.
He acknowledged that referees can make mistakes and said he did not want to focus on the officiating after the defeat.
