Elyaz Zidane, the young French football defender and son of legendary player Zinedine Zidane, recently opened up about his decision to leave Spain and continue his career in France. After spending his formative years in Spanish academies with Real Madrid and later Real Betis, the 20-year-old decided to join Ligue 2 club Red Star during the summer transfer window. Free from his contract in Andalusia, the player born in Marseille chose a brand new challenge across the Pyrenees.
A strategic position change for the young defender
Before establishing himself as a reliable central defender, Elyaz Zidane tested various positions on the pitch during his childhood. Initially playing as a midfielder and an attacker, he later transitioned into a left-back role. However, a major growth spurt around the age of fifteen changed his trajectory. Standing at 1.96m tall, left-footed, and possessing strong distribution skills, his coaches encouraged him to move into the central defensive axis.
Why Elyaz Zidane chose to join Red Star in Ligue 2
Following his departure from Spain, the young defender had multiple options on the table, but the ambitious project presented by Red Star convinced him entirely. The club's manager, Damien Perrinelle, personally contacted him to outline the tactical vision and demonstrate absolute trust. Although his football culture remains deeply rooted in Spain after years of training there, Zidane expressed a strong desire to absorb the French mentality and experience Ligue 2 firsthand.
Immediate impact and upcoming fixtures
The choice has proven successful so far, as the towering defender has quickly secured a permanent spot in the starting lineup, featuring in seven of the team's opening eight matches. Red Star currently sits second in the Ligue 2 standings and is aiming for promotion to Ligue 1. The next crucial step for Elyaz Zidane and his squad is a high-stakes clash against league leaders Saint-Etienne, an encounter the ambitious competitor is determined to win.
Photo : Darthvadrouw — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
