Sports
Zidane confirms Mbappe as France captain
September 18, 2026 at 09:58 PM
Coverage
2 reports · over 3 hours
Zinedine Zidane has confirmed Kylian Mbappe as France captain after announcing his first squad since succeeding Didier Deschamps, with France facing four friendly matches during the international break.
- Zidane confirmed at a press conference that Kylian Mbappe will wear France's captain armband during his tenure.
- Zidane said the Real Madrid forward is best deployed across the three attacking positions rather than as a lone No. 9, and will carry out defensive duties like any other France player.
- Zidane explained the omission of Aurelien Tchouameni, saying the Real Madrid midfielder has started only one match and should stay in Madrid to regain his level during the international break.
- France will play four international friendlies during the break — against Turkey, Belgium (home and away), and Italy.

