Zidane: Yamal, Olise, Mbappé are players who made me dream at 2026 World Cup

Gathered in July with David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the video game brand EA Sports, Zinédine Zidane spoke about the 2026 World Cup and the new generation of football talent. The future coach of the French national team expressed his high regard for young stars such as Lamine Yamal and Michael Olise.

Zidane's Rare Comments

While waiting to take up his position as coach of Les Bleus, Zinédine Zidane followed the 2026 World Cup very closely. The tournament concluded this Sunday with Spain's triumph over Argentina in the final. The 1998 Ballon d'Or winner was present in the stands of MetLife Stadium.

Before witnessing Lamine Yamal lift the trophy, Zizou spoke at the beginning of July about the World Cup during a freewheeling conversation with David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as part of the promotion for EA Sports.

Legends Praise the New Generation

The three legends agreed that the new generation, embodied by Lamine Yamal, is exceptionally talented.

• Zlatan Ibrahimovic: "For me, Lamine Yamal is special. He just turned 19. But when he was 16-17, he played like a phenomenon. He's already won a Euro and two La Ligas."
• David Beckham cited his compatriot Jude Bellingham ("a star") and Kylian Mbappé: "Kylian, we've seen him forever. We don't associate him with the new generation, but he is part of it. He's still young and he's been around for a long time."

Zidane: "I Really Enjoyed It"

Also impressed by the new generation, Zinédine Zidane agreed with his former Real Madrid teammate:

"There are so many young players. They are players who are 20-21 years old and play like we did in the neighborhood. That's what we want to see on the pitch, ultimately. It was beautiful to watch them play. We can talk about Yamal, Olise, Mbappé. Everything they show us on the pitch... They all make us dream when we watch the matches. That's what we want to see. I really enjoyed it."

Zidane's Upcoming Appointment

As Didier Deschamps said goodbye to the French national team after an incredible match for 3rd place against England on Saturday in Miami (defeat 6-4), Zinédine Zidane is set to succeed him soon. The FFF should officially announce his appointment as coach of Les Bleus before the end of July.

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