Zidane impressed by Liverpool defender Jeremy Jacquet after France display

Zinedine Zidane praised Jeremy Jacquet’s bravery and physical strength after the Liverpool defender completed 90 minutes in France’s 1-1 draw with Italy in the UEFA Nations League.

The match was only Jacquet’s second appearance for the France senior team. The 21-year-old made his debut four days earlier, starting in the 1-0 victory over Belgium, but he has already made a significant impression on the France head coach.

Zidane was particularly pleased with Jacquet’s willingness to step forward and compete in his battles with Italy’s players.

“Very good. Very, very good. Brave,” Zidane told reporters.

“He wasn’t afraid to come out a long way. Very good in the duels. He was, once again, very good. I said it four times.”

Jacquet’s rapid rise with France follows an impressive start to the 2026-27 season at Liverpool. He had featured in every match for the club before the international break and was nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award for September.

The defender said joining up with the senior national team had been even better than he expected.

“Better than I imagined,” Jacquet said.

“To train with all these great players, it’s just a great pleasure. I’m just trying to make the most of every moment.”

France will meet Belgium again on Monday at the Stade de France, with Jacquet now in contention for another chance to build on his encouraging start at international level.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Sunday, October 11, when they host Manchester City at Anfield.