Questioning Zidane's Tactical Fit for Modern International Football

Despite his impressive resume, Zinédine Zidane's coaching style may not translate smoothly to the French national team. Critics point to his tactical approach as overly reliant on individual brilliance and counter-attacking setups, which he used at Real Madrid with players like Cristiano Ronaldo. International football, especially with France's possession-based talent, demands a more structured attacking system. Zidane's Real Madrid often struggled against disciplined, high-pressing teams, a weakness that could be exploited in tournaments. Additionally, his preference for a small core of trusted players might alienate squad members who expect rotation. The France team under Deschamps has thrived on tactical organization and adaptability, qualities not consistently shown by Zidane. There are also concerns about his long absence from coaching—he has not managed since 2021—and whether he can quickly adapt to the intense scrutiny and limited training time of international football. Some analysts argue that his success at Real Madrid was partly due to inheriting a mature team and benefiting from Cristiano Ronaldo's peak. Without such a talisman, his management style might not yield the same results. The Federation should be cautious about a romanticized appointment.