Kylian Mbappe is set to work with Zinedine Zidane for the first time as France begin a new chapter following Didier Deschamps’ departure.
Kylian Mbappe has described Zinedine Zidane’s appointment as France head coach as an extraordinary moment, saying working under the former French star feels “like something out of a movie.”
The two will officially begin their professional relationship during the current international break, with Zidane returning to management after spending five years away from the dugout following his departure from Real Madrid.
Mbappe has previously highlighted Zidane’s importance to French football, describing him as the player who most represents the national team. The France captain has also acknowledged the lasting influence Zidane had on the country’s footballing history.
Zidane’s connection with Mbappe dates back to the forward’s teenage years. Mbappe recalled that Zidane once invited him to visit Real Madrid’s training facilities when he was around 13 or 14 years old.
According to Mbappe, that early encounter makes the current situation particularly remarkable, with Zidane now responsible for managing him at international level. The France forward also expressed confidence in the new coach’s abilities and experience.
The appointment marks the end of Didier Deschamps’ long tenure with France. Deschamps had been in charge for 14 years and guided Les Bleus to their second FIFA World Cup title in 2018 before taking them to another final four years later.
Zidane has already confirmed that Mbappe will retain the France captaincy as he begins his tenure. The change represents a new period for a squad that had become accustomed to Deschamps’ management style.
Mbappe said the transition would be a different experience for the players, particularly because Deschamps had been the only coach many of them had known at international level. However, he expects the squad to adapt positively.
Zidane’s first competitive assignment comes against Turkey in the Nations League on Friday. France will then face Belgium and Italy as the new manager begins shaping the team and establishing his approach.
The appointment has generated considerable interest given Zidane’s history with French football and his previous success at club level.