Zinedine Zidane promises changes as France prepare for Belgium in Nations League

Zinedine Zidane says France will make extensive changes for Monday’s Nations League meeting with Belgium as he looks to manage the workload of his players.

Belgium travel to face France in the fourth round of the competition, with the match representing France’s fourth game in 10 days. Zidane indicated that rotation would be central to his selection plans after a demanding period for the squad.

“There will definitely be changes to the team against Belgium,” Zidane said at his pre-match news conference. “It is our fourth match in 10 days.”

The France manager stressed that the changes would be carefully considered rather than made without a clear plan. He also underlined the importance of using everyone involved in the current international camp.

“We must avoid doing anything randomly,” he said. “We also have to make use of all the players who are here at the camp.”

Zidane added that every member of the squad had a role to play, saying he wanted his players to understand that they remained important to the team.

“Everyone is important to me in this national team,” he said. “That is the message I want to give to all the players. I want to rely on everyone.”

France began the Nations League by beating Turkey before defeating Belgium 1-0 away from home in the opening two rounds. They then drew 1-1 with Italy at home in the third round.

Zidane also spoke positively about his first camp in charge of France, saying he had valued the opportunity to work closely with the squad over an extended period.

“It was wonderful to be with the players for 15 days,” he said.

However, the former Real Madrid manager admitted he was disappointed that the camp was coming to an end. He said France’s objective was to complete the period together with another victory.

“I feel some frustration because this camp is about to finish,” Zidane said. “We have to leave this camp feeling happy. The players have worked well throughout, and it would be good to finish it with another win.”

The France manager was also asked about Cristiano Ronaldo, who is currently facing difficulties with the Portugal national team. Zidane paid tribute to the forward’s career and recalled the success they shared at Real Madrid.

“We must praise his extraordinary career,” Zidane said. “What he achieved was exceptional. I was fortunate to have him in my team; he helped me win many trophies.”

Ronaldo played under Zidane at Real Madrid, where the pair won several honours, including the Champions League three times in a row.