Zidane begins France tenure with incomplete squad at first training

Zinedine Zidane commenced his role as France's new head coach with a training session that saw a number of the national team's prominent players unavailable for selection. The absence stemmed from their continued involvement in club matches held across European leagues over the preceding weekend, a common fixture scheduling challenge for international football.

The renowned former midfielder, who previously achieved unprecedented success at Real Madrid with three consecutive Champions League titles, inherits a French squad that has established itself among Europe's elite. Despite the incomplete turnout at his first session, Zidane's appointment signals a fresh chapter for the national team following his return to management.

The logistics of coordinating international football often result in staggered squad availability, particularly when players represent clubs competing in various European competitions. The situation is expected to normalise as the squad assembles ahead of upcoming fixtures, allowing Zidane to work with his full complement of players and begin implementing his tactical vision.

The 52-year-old's appointment marks a significant moment for French football, bringing the calibre of his playing pedigree and managerial track record to bear on the national team's future ambitions.