France head coach Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to enjoy their football, reminding them that their careers can pass remarkably quickly.
Speaking ahead of France’s UEFA Nations League clash with Belgium, Zidane reflected on the speed at which football and life move, using his own transition from legendary player to coach to underline his message to the squad.
“Football moves so fast. Look, I’m 54 years old, I’m here at a press conference, and I can’t play football anymore.”
Zidane, who took over as France coach in July 2026, said he expects commitment from every member of his squad but wants them to appreciate the privilege of playing at the highest level.
“What I tell the players is to enjoy it. I expect something from everyone, but above all, I want them to enjoy it.”
The former France captain knows that experience first-hand. As a player, he won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2000 with France before later moving into management, where he guided Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. UEFA notes that his transition to international management came after a period away from coaching, having last managed Real Madrid between 2019 and 2021.
Zidane’s message comes at the beginning of a new chapter with Les Bleus. France opened their 2026/27 Nations League campaign with a 1–0 victory over Türkiye in Kocaeli, with Kylian Mbappe scoring the decisive goal. Belgium represents Zidane’s second competitive match in charge.
With the former World Cup-winning midfielder now occupying the France dugout, his words carry a personal perspective: football was once something he experienced directly on the pitch; now, his role is to guide a new generation through the same journey.