The French national team is preparing to return home for an upcoming fixture in international football, hosting Italy this Friday at 20:45 CET. Following successful outings in Turkey and Belgium during this international window, the squad coached by Zinedine Zidane is getting ready to perform in front of its home supporters at the Stade de France. Amidst ongoing preparations, midfielder Manu Kone is scheduled to speak to the media in a press conference this Wednesday.
Zidane brings tactical changes to the French midfield
Since taking charge, Zinedine Zidane has significantly altered the playing style of the French national team. His tactical choices in the middle of the park have introduced more movement, high pressing, and audacity into the team's performances. This renewed dynamic was recently highlighted during the narrow victory against Belgium, where Michael Olise scored the decisive goal, prompting an enthusiastic celebration from the manager on the sideline.
Squad updates and upcoming challenges in international football
Despite securing victories in Turkey and Belgium, the French camp has faced a few hurdles. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé suffered an injury during the opening match and has returned to Spain, ruling him out for the remainder of the international break. Meanwhile, off-pitch moments, such as a casual bicycle ride through Paris by Ousmane Dembélé and Dayot Upamecano, have also caught public attention.
Next fixture
The French national team will face Italy this Friday at 20:45 at the Stade de France, marking their first home appearance of this international break.
Photo : Bryan Berlin — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
