‘I feel immense emotion’ — Zidane ahead of first France match

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Zidane

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By Adegboyega Adeleye

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Zinedine Zidane has admitted the significance of taking charge of France for the first time as he prepares to begin his reign against Turkey in the Nations League on Friday.

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The 54-year-old succeeded Didier Deschamps following the former France captain’s 14-year spell in charge and will officially begin his tenure with an away fixture in Kocaeli.

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Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Zidane was asked whether his emotions were comparable to those he experienced when he made his France debut 32 years ago.

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“Maybe even more, actually,” Zidane said.

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“It was a long time ago, and today I feel an immense emotion at being here in charge of this France team.”

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Zidane’s appointment has generated huge interest in France, with his first week in charge dominating media coverage ahead of his first competitive match.

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The former Real Madrid manager, however, insisted the focus should remain on his players rather than his own status.

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“It’s the next step after Didier’s 14 years, it’s something new so it’s completely normal. But the main protagonists are the players,” he said.

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“I think you just have to accept the way things are done; I’m not looking for that and I’m not here for that.

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“I’m going to try to do the job with my players, to make sure we can win matches – that’s what interests me.”

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France midfielder Adrien Rabiot said Zidane has also tried to minimise the attention surrounding his appointment and allow the players to express themselves.

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“He is with us the way he is on the outside,” Rabiot said.

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“We’re fully aware of how important he’s been for French football. His aura means he takes up a lot of space and people expect a lot from him.”

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Rabiot, who is one of France’s captains alongside Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Jules Kounde, said several changes have already been noticeable since Zidane replaced Deschamps.

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“Some players already, different ways of doing things and also different training sessions,” he said.

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“What the coach wants is obviously a fairly attacking style of play.

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“We’ll be very closely watched for how we play because the coach is new and a lot is expected from him.”

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Zidane will have to wait until next Friday to lead France in a home match, with his first two fixtures coming away from home.

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France face Turkey on Friday before travelling to play Belgium on Monday, while Zidane’s first home game will come against Italy next Friday.

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