NEWS
Former Salzburg Player Raves About New Head Coach Zinédine Zidane
"When we were young, we were all fans of him," said the centre-back. His first address also made an impression on the Germany-based player.
All eyes are on new head coach Zinédine Zidane in the French national team.
The French World and European champion made a lasting impression right from his first training session with the "Équipe Tricolore". "When we were young, we were all fans of him and also of (Ed. goalkeeping coach Fabien) Barthez. It's a pleasure to learn from him."
At the start of preparations for the Nations League, the focus was on "settling in and welcoming the new lads."
"It's hard to copy Zidane's ball control," said Upamecano, who played for FC Red Bull Salzburg between 2015 and 2017, with a wink.
But right in his first address, the former Real coach made it clear to the team what he expected from them. "It was that we show commitment on the pitch," revealed the Germany-based player.
Lacroix: "When Zidane passes you the ball..."
Chelsea star Maxence Lacroix also said it was "a pleasure" to work with the former world-class player.
"We followed them when we were young, and now we can train with them. That's fantastic. We don't feel any pressure, but great pride," he described his feelings about the new head coach, but also noted: "When Zidane passes you the ball, you have to be sure of your qualities. He hasn't forgotten a thing."
Zinédine Zidane will make his competitive debut as French head coach in the Nations League opener on Friday against Turkey (from 8:45 PM).
