France’s new head coach Zinedine Zidane has unveiled a tactical overhaul ahead of the team’s UEFA Nations League clash with Turkey, moving the side to a 4‑3‑3 formation and assigning fresh responsibilities to several key players.
The former Real Madrid midfielder and World Cup winner began his tenure during the opening round of the Nations League, replacing Didier Deschamps whose final period in charge relied on a 4‑2‑3‑1 setup. Zidane’s shift signals a clear departure from his predecessor’s system.
According to French daily L’Équipe, Zidane communicated the new plan on Tuesday evening at the Clairefontaine training centre. A Wednesday session confirmed the changes, with Kylian Mbappé deployed on the left wing, Ousmane Dembélé positioned as the out‑and‑out striker, and Michael Olise taking up the right flank.
The midfield reshuffle also sees Manu Koné slated for the defensive midfield role, while Adrien Rabiot and Rayan Cherki are expected to operate as the creative playmakers alongside him.
- Kylian Mbappé – left wing
- Ousmane Dembélé – central striker
- Michael Olise – right wing
- Manu Koné – defensive midfield
- Adrien Rabiot & Rayan Cherki – attacking midfield/playmakers
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
