Zinédine Zidane’s expected arrival as France head coach should open a new cycle without triggering an immediate revolution. The future manager reportedly already has a clear idea of his attacking setup, with Michael Olise established as the number 10 in a preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
Zidane is expected to arrive with a completely new and expanded backroom staff of around 20 people, with none of Didier Deschamps’ current assistants likely to remain. On the pitch, however, the changes should be more gradual. According to L’Équipe, Zidane wants to keep Olise in a central role behind the striker, where he can influence the game, receive more of the ball and supply the attacking players around him.
Olise and Mbappé at the Heart of Zidane’s Plans
This choice would confirm Zidane’s intention to build the team around a genuine playmaker, with Olise becoming one of the technical pillars of the new France project. The main question will concern Kylian Mbappé. Used centrally by both Didier Deschamps and Carlo Ancelotti, the France captain could remain as a number nine, although a return to the left wing is also possible. Zidane will need to decide whether Mbappé is more dangerous leading the attack or cutting inside from a wide position.
Read More
The 4-2-3-1 currently appears to be the most likely system. Olise would play behind the striker, supported by two fast wide players and a double pivot responsible for maintaining balance. This structure would allow Zidane to make the most of France’s technical quality while limiting defensive exposure and giving the attacking players greater freedom. The midfield hierarchy will nevertheless be another major issue, as Zidane must identify the players capable of supporting Olise while protecting the defence.
Behind the scenes, Zidane and Mbappé have reportedly already begun preparing for their future partnership. The two men have enjoyed a strong relationship for several years and deliberately limited their public exchanges during the World Cup to avoid disrupting the France squad. Rather than rebuilding everything, Zidane is expected to retain the core established by Deschamps, gradually adjust the hierarchy and introduce more freedom in possession. With Olise as the creative leader and Mbappé at the centre of the project, Zidane’s France team is already beginning to take shape.
