Elyaz Zidane opens up on pressure of living in father Zinédine’s shadow

Elyaz Zidane has spoken about the challenges of being constantly compared with his father, French football legend Zinédine Zidane, as he continues to establish himself in professional football.

The 20-year-old defender, who joined Ligue 2 side Red Star in the summer, has made an encouraging start to the season, starting all of the club’s first seven league matches.

The Marseille-born player has quickly become part of the defence of a Red Star side currently second in the table, ahead of their important meeting with league leaders AS Saint-Étienne.

In an interview with Le Parisien, Elyaz discussed his father’s influence on his career and the pressure that comes with carrying one of football’s most recognisable surnames.

Constant comparisons bring added pressure

Elyaz acknowledged that being the son of a football icon has its advantages, but admitted that the expectations surrounding him can make his development more difficult.

“His feedback focuses more on the tactical side, on areas for improvement and on the constant quest for progress,” the defender said of his father’s advice.

He also explained that the attention surrounding his family name has sometimes made it harder to develop away from the spotlight.

“When you’re young, the most important thing is to be able to develop without constantly having the spotlight on you, and that’s what proved a bit difficult,” he recalled.

The defender added that being associated with his father can lead to greater scrutiny.

“Positive aspects” exist, he said, but certain aspects remain “more complex, particularly the constant comparisons and the fact that I’m judged more harshly than others.”

Zinédine’s guidance remains important

Despite the challenges, Elyaz said he remains proud of his father and values the support he has received throughout his career.

“On the other hand, I’m extremely proud of my father, who gave me a lot of advice. Thanks to his illustrious career, he guided me not only in sporting matters but also on the lifestyle of a top-level athlete – such as diet, recovery and behaviour off the pitch. He’s always been there to support me.”

The young defender also explained that his father’s feedback focuses on tactical details and areas where he can improve, helping him continue his development as a player.

Building his own career at Red Star

Elyaz’s strong start at Red Star has given him an opportunity to establish himself at senior level while navigating the expectations attached to his surname.

Having started each of the club’s first seven league matches, he will look to maintain his progress as Red Star prepare to face Saint-Étienne in a key Ligue 2 encounter.