Zidane admits emotion on eve of first game as France coach

Zinedine Zidane expressed immense emotion as he prepared to take charge of the France national team in their UEFA Nations League match against Turkey. The 54-year-old, who won the World Cup with France in 1998, admitted that his feelings were even greater than those he experienced during his first match as a player. Zidane took on the role of France's coach in July, succeeding Didier Deschamps, who had held the position for 14 years.

Despite his immense success as a player and coach, Zidane emphasized that the focus should be on the players. He aims to create a framework with the team to help them achieve victories, acknowledging that the players are the key to success. Captain Kylian Mbappe, who had been struggling with illness, is now back in full training.

Zidane's appointment has generated significant anticipation in France, and midfielder Adrien Rabiot noted that Zidane's presence could have a positive impact on the players. While Zidane strives to minimize the spotlight on himself, Rabiot believes the players appreciate his significance to French football and want to avoid excessive attention on him.