Nations League 'a great opportunity' for NI - Ballard

The 2026/27 Nations League commences on Thursday, drawing attention not only to the matches but also to the impressive lineup of new coaches set to make their debuts. Since the conclusion of the World Cup tournament in North America, a significant number of European nations - 10 in total - have appointed fresh coaches. Among the most notable are former France star Zinedine Zidane, who replaces Didier Deschamps as the new leader of Les Bleus, and Jurgen Klopp, who takes over his home country Germany.

Fans of France were eagerly anticipating Zidane's return as the country's coach following his departure after 14 years. Zidane expressed his excitement in July, stating that he had turned down several club managerial opportunities to return to the national team. His first coaching assignment will see him lead France against Turkey on Friday, Belgium three days later, and Italy at Stade de France on October 2, with a second match against Belgium the following Monday.

Klopp's appointment in Germany has also been met with enthusiasm, despite it being his first experience with the Nationalmannschaft. As a coach, Klopp has enjoyed success at Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool, while also serving as Red Bull's global sports director. In his opening two games, Klopp will lead Germany against the Netherlands in Amsterdam, Greece at home, Serbia in Munich, and Croatia at home.

Notable among the other new coaches is Jorge Jesus, who will lead Portugal in their debut, Xavi Hernandez replacing Ronald Koeman as the Netherlands coach, Roberto Mancini returning to manage Italy, Mark van Bommel overseeing Belgium's first Nations League match, and Slaven Bilic taking on Croatia for the second time. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, will continue in his position, having just secured a contract extension until 2032.

Spain will kick off their pursuit of another Nations League title with a match against England at Wembley on Saturday.