Zinédine Zidane will be present at the MetLife Stadium in New York for the Spain-Argentina match, according to reports in France. While officially attending as a guest of sponsor Adidas, his presence is already being linked to potential scouting ahead of the Euro 2028 tournament.
Zidane’s attendance will inevitably draw significant media attention, with broadcasters expected to frequently focus on VIPs present at the stadium. However, the trip also allows Zidane an early opportunity to analyse the Spanish national team, a potential opponent for France in the upcoming European Championships. The French Football Federation appointed Zidane as the national team manager in September 2023, with his first competitive match yet to be played.
This proactive approach from Zidane suggests a meticulous preparation strategy for the Euro 2028, despite the tournament being two years away. He previously managed Real Madrid with considerable success, winning three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018. His managerial record demonstrates a keen tactical understanding and an ability to identify and exploit opponent weaknesses.
The appointment of Zidane was widely celebrated in France, ending a period of uncertainty following Didier Deschamps’ long tenure as manager. Deschamps led France to victory at the 2018 World Cup and the final of the 2022 tournament, but the federation opted for a change in leadership. Zidane’s arrival is expected to inject fresh ideas and enthusiasm into the national team setup. His initial focus will be on building a cohesive squad and developing a clear tactical identity for the Euros.
Should Zidane identify a tactical solution to counter Spain’s system during the match, fans are already playfully suggesting a statue in his honour. This early scouting mission signifies a determined start to his tenure as France manager, with the aim of securing success at Euro 2028.
