Zinedine Zidane has praised Türkiye ahead of his first match as France coach, describing the hosts as a strong side and warning that they will provide a difficult test in Friday’s UEFA Nations League opener.

“Türkiye are a very good team,” Zidane told reporters Thursday at Kocaeli Stadium. “Tomorrow will be a very difficult match, and they will cause us problems.”

The Group 1, League A clash will mark Zidane’s first game in charge of Les Bleus after he succeeded Didier Deschamps following the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to Deschamps’ 14-year tenure.

Zidane begins new chapter with France

Zidane, who made his France debut as a player 32 years ago, said returning to the national team remained a source of excitement and that he was determined to help the team win more trophies.

France have completed three training sessions under their new coach, who said the team’s immediate objective was straightforward.

“We will enter the match with the sole aim of winning,” Zidane said.

The former Real Madrid coach also played down the attention surrounding his appointment, saying his focus was now firmly on his players and their performance.

“It does not bother me. It is something very natural,” he said. “But today I am a coach. My players know what they have to do, and everyone knows their role.”

New faces and praise for Arda Guler

Zidane also expressed confidence in the six uncapped players included in his first France squad, saying the national team remained open to players who earn their opportunity.

“I am very happy to be the first national team coach to call them up, and I trust them,” he said. “They will get their chance to wear the shirt, and when they do, I believe they can help take France to a better place.”

He also singled out Türkiye and Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler for praise.

“Arda is a very, very good player. I like him, and I am happy that he plays for Real Madrid,” Zidane said.