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Le Parisien: Mbappé remains France captain under coach
Teams 4 August 2026

Le Parisien: Mbappé remains France captain under coach

Le Parisien reports that Kylian Mbappe will remain France captain as Zinedine Zidane takes over at Les Bleus. The choice emphasizes continuity in the selection after the 2026 World Cup.

Le Parisien: Mbappé remains France captain under coach

According to Championat.

Background

Kylian Mbappé, with 106 caps and 66 goals, has proven his status as one of the best players in the world. His role as captain under Zidane will be crucial to the development of the France squad, especially with the pressure of the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. The long-standing relationship between Mbappé and Zidane is expected to have a positive impact on the team dynamics.

Why this matters

The appointment of Zinedine Zidane as coach of the French national team marks a new chapter for Les Bleus, with Kylian Mbappé as captain. This continuity in leadership is crucial, especially ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where France will look to defend its status as world champions. Mbappé's impressive performances, including his role as top scorer at the 2026 World Cup, cement his position as the team's natural leader.

Key points

  • Le Parisien: Mbappé remains France captain under coach.
  • Le Parisien reports that Kylian Mbappé will remain France captain as Zinedine Zidane takes over at Les Bleus.
  • Мбаппе сохранит on the photo тренере Зидане — Le Parisien.

Kylian Mbappé will remain captain of the French national team when Zinedine Zidane takes over as the new national coach. This was reported by the French newspaper Le Parisien. According to reports, there is no internal doubt about the captaincy issue: Zidane and Mbappé have known and respected each other for a long time, which ensures continuity in the leadership of Les Bleus.

The French Football Federation (FFF) would soon officially confirm Zidane's arrival, according to previous reports. With the appointment of the former world champion, France gets a top coach who has performed at the highest level both as a player and a coach. For Mbappé, who took over the band in 2023 after Hugo Lloris retired as an international player, it means continuing his role as the face and pioneer of this generation.

Mbappé's figures for France underline his status: the attacker has 106 caps and 66 goals. In addition, he became the top scorer of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico with 10 goals. That production, combined with his influence on and off the field, makes him the natural leader within the squad. The fact that this line is now being adhered to is in line with the desire to create stability during the start of Zidane's new national coachship.

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The challenge for Zidane is to continue to stimulate the core around Mbappé and rejuvenate it where necessary. It is expected that in his first international match he will place clear emphasis on playing style, hierarchy and responsibilities within the team. However, with Mbappé's captaincy, the team's axis remains intact, which should facilitate the introduction of new ideas.

FromFrom a Dutch perspective, this choice is relevant to follow. France is invariably among the top favorites at final tournaments and friendly top matches, and a possible meeting with the Dutch team in the coming international years remains a real possibility. Mbappé's depth and productivity are well-known weapons, and with Zidane at the helm, France gets a coach who usually opts for a balance between control and explosiveness in transition. This also makes Les Bleus a benchmark for top European nations in the coming cycle.

When the FFF makes Zidane's appointment official, it will also become clear which staff and vice-captaincy structure he will choose. For now, the most important decision has been made: Mbappé keeps the bond and remains the face of France in the new period under Zidane. Le Parisien emphasizes that the choice is logical given the mutual understanding and sporting security that the striker has offered his country in recent years.

What's happening now

With Zidane at the helm, the focus will be on optimizing the core around Mbappé, while there is also room for rejuvenating the selection. The French Football Federation (FFF) is expected to issue official confirmation of Zidane's appointment soon. This provides an opportunity for the team to prepare for the challenges ahead, including qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to France's captaincy?

Kylian Mbappé remains captain of the French national team under new national coach Zinedine Zidane.

Who has confirmed the captaincy?

The French newspaper Le Parisien reports that there is no internal doubt about the captaincy and that Zidane and Mbappé have known and respected each other for a long time.

Why is this important now?

Retaining Mbappé as captain fits in with the desire to create stability during the start of Zidane's new national coaching position.

What changes are expected under Zidane?

Zidane will place clear emphasis on playing style, hierarchy and responsibilities within the team in his first international match.

What are Mbappé's achievements for France?

Kylian Mbappé has made 106 appearances and scored 66 goals, and was the top scorer at the 2026 World Cup with 10 goals.

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