‘It’s an honour to be here’ – Zidane’s son explains decision to represent Algeria

Luca Zidane, son of football legend Zinedine Zidane, says it is ‘an honour’ to represent Algeria after officially switching his international allegiance from France to the North African nation.

The 27-year-old Granada goalkeeper, born in Marseille, made the decision after years of waiting for a senior call-up from France that never came.

Zidane, who is of Algerian descent through his father, represented France at every youth level from U15 to U19.

However, he has now accepted a call-up from Algeria for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Somalia and Uganda.

“I’m happy to be in Algeria, it’s an honour to be here for my first call-up. We hope to win the next match to qualify for the World Cup.

“It’s an important match, and we hope the people from Algeria will support us,” Zidane told the Algerian Football Federation’s media.

His arrival in Algiers drew large crowds of excited fans at Houari Boumediene Airport, eager to welcome the son of the 1998 World Cup winner who never played for Algeria himself.

For many, Luca’s decision represents a symbolic connection to Zinedine Zidane’s Algerian roots.

Currently playing in Spain’s Segunda Division, Zidane has made seven appearances this season for Granada, keeping one clean sheet.

His career began at Real Madrid, where he made his senior debut under his father’s management. He later played for Rayo Vallecano and Eibar before joining Granada in 2024.

Although it is unclear if he will make his debut in the upcoming qualifiers, Zidane’s commitment to Algeria has already generated significant excitement.