New France boss Zidane confirms Mbappe as captain after naming first squad

Zinedine Zidane has announced his first squad for France as head coach, including Kylian Mbappe as captain. The Real Madrid star delivered an impressive performance as team captain at the 2022 World Cup, leading the tournament's top scorer with 10 goals. Mbappe played both as a centre-forward and left winger during the World Cup but was primarily used on the right during France's 2018 triumph.

Zidane, who succeeded Didier Deschamps, unveiled the squad in Paris following the World Cup. The coach highlighted Mbappe's versatility, mentioning his suitability for three positions and his preference for him to play on the left. The 54-year-old former Ballon d'Or winner, who retired from playing in 2006, has added several new faces to his first squad, including Jeremy Jacquet, Esteban Lepaul, Lucas Da Cunha, Andy Diouf, and Guillaume Restes.

The squad will primarily focus on the UEFA Nations League, with matches against Turkey, Belgium, and Italy in the coming months. Later, France will participate in Euro 2028 qualifying, with the finals set to be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.