Zidane appoints Mbappe as France captain and announces first squad

Former French international Zinedine Zidane, newly appointed head coach of the France national football team, announced his inaugural squad on Tuesday, confirming that forward Kylian Mbappé will serve as captain. The selection marks Zidane’s first official roster since taking charge of the Les Bleus, and it includes a blend of established players and emerging talent aimed at revitalising the side ahead of upcoming fixtures.

France’s opening matches under Zidane’s leadership are scheduled against Turkey and Belgium in the next international window, providing the new coach an early opportunity to implement his tactical vision. The appointments and fixtures were reported by Nick Rushworth, highlighting the strategic direction Zidane intends to pursue as he begins his tenure with the national team.