Zidane Unveils New 4-3-3 Formation in Debut as France Coach Amid Hostile Atmosphere in Turkey

Zinédine Zidane marked his arrival as head coach of the French national football team with a clear tactical shift during the UEFA Nations League match against Turkey on September 25, 2026, in Izmit. Departing from Didier Deschamps' strategies, Zidane deployed a 4-3-3 formation. Kylian Mbappé, traditionally a striker, was positioned on the left wing, while Ousmane Dembélé took the central attacking role, consistent with his club position at Paris Saint-Germain. Michael Olise was stationed on the right wing, creating a wide attacking spread. The midfield trio featured Rayan Cherki on the right, Adrien Rabiot on the left, and Manu Koné anchoring defensively.

The match atmosphere was charged, with the Turkish crowd booing the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, reflecting lingering tensions following Turkey's recent World Cup disappointment. Zidane was late arriving for the anthem but remained composed in the intense setting, drawing on his experience as a former player familiar with hostile environments.

A minute of silence preceded the match to honor Ebubekir Uçar, a security member of the Turkish Football Federation who died in an accident, and Tolga Kalender, a young Turkish footballer who passed away from cancer. Zidane's tactical choices—emphasizing quick, wide attacking options—signal a significant evolution for the French team under his leadership as they seek to redefine their style after recent international setbacks.