Manu Kone: France focused on Italy challenge as Zinedine Zidane gives players freedom

France midfielder Manu Kone says Italy will provide a difficult test in the Nations League despite being in a period of rebuilding.

Italy visit France on Friday evening for the third round of the group stage, with France looking to record a victory in Zinedine Zidane’s first home match as head coach.

“Italy are rebuilding and going through a complicated period, but our focus will be entirely on ourselves,” Kone said at a news conference.

“We know we are France and that we have outstanding players. We also want to win our coach’s first match at home.”

Kone also explained how he had responded to Zidane’s instructions on the pitch, stressing the importance of versatility in midfield.

“I tried to do what Zidane asked me to do during the match,” he said. “For me, a midfielder must be capable of playing in any position.”

The Roma player said working under Zidane had been a positive experience and praised the former France international’s approach to coaching.

“It is fantastic to train under Zidane because he is a global legend,” Kone added. “He has worked with us in a personal and demanding way, while remaining very close to the players.

“He speaks to us constantly, both individually and as a group.”

Kone said Zidane had encouraged the squad to express themselves rather than play within restrictive limits.

“Zidane gave us the confidence to play freely, and it is enjoyable to be able to play as ourselves,” he said.

“On a personal level, he is extremely honest. He spoke to me individually and told me that I should play in the way I am used to.”

Zidane became France manager after Didier Deschamps left the role following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.

France began their Nations League campaign with a 1-0 win against Turkey before beating Belgium by the same score. Michael Olise scored the only goal against Belgium in the 88th minute after a fine individual run, finishing with a low shot past goalkeeper Sam Lamine.

That result moved France to six points at the top of the group, while Belgium remained third on three points.

Belgium had opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Italy before losing to France.

France and Italy will now meet in the third round, with the Italians arriving in France seeking a response after their defeat by Belgium.