‘I feel immense emotion’ — Zidane ahead of first France match

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Zinedine Zidane has admitted the significance of taking charge of France for the first time as he prepares to begin his reign against Turkey in the Nations League on Friday.

The 54-year-old succeeded Didier Deschamps following the former France captain’s 14-year spell in charge and will officially begin his tenure with an away fixture in Kocaeli.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Zidane was asked whether his emotions were comparable to those he experienced when he made his France debut 32 years ago.

“Maybe even more, actually,” Zidane said.

“It was a long time ago, and today I feel an immense emotion at being here in charge of this France team.”

Zidane’s appointment has generated huge interest in France, with his first week in charge dominating media coverage ahead of his first competitive match.

The former Real Madrid manager, however, insisted the focus should remain on his players rather than his own status.

“It’s the next step after Didier’s 14 years, it’s something new so it’s completely normal. But the main protagonists are the players,” he said.

“I think you just have to accept the way things are done; I’m not looking for that and I’m not here for that.

“I’m going to try to do the job with my players, to make sure we can win matches – that’s what interests me.”

France midfielder Adrien Rabiot said Zidane has also tried to minimise the attention surrounding his appointment and allow the players to express themselves.

“He is with us the way he is on the outside,” Rabiot said.

“We’re fully aware of how important he’s been for French football. His aura means he takes up a lot of space and people expect a lot from him.”

Rabiot, who is one of France’s captains alongside Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Jules Kounde, said several changes have already been noticeable since Zidane replaced Deschamps.

“Some players already, different ways of doing things and also different training sessions,” he said.

“What the coach wants is obviously a fairly attacking style of play.

“We’ll be very closely watched for how we play because the coach is new and a lot is expected from him.”

Zidane will have to wait until next Friday to lead France in a home match, with his first two fixtures coming away from home.

France face Turkey on Friday before travelling to play Belgium on Monday, while Zidane’s first home game will come against Italy next Friday.

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