Goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football icon Zinedine Zidane, has formally pledged his international allegiance to Algeria.
FIFA confirmed on Friday that the 27-year-old’s change of association had been approved via its “Change of Association Platform,” making him eligible to represent the Fennecs in forthcoming competitions.
Born in Marseille, Zidane progressed through France’s youth ranks, representing the nation from U16 to U20 level and lifting the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in 2015. However, opportunities with the senior side failed to materialise, prompting him to embrace his Algerian roots through his paternal grandparents.
His decision arrives at a pivotal moment for Algeria. Head coach Vladimir Petković is preparing his squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco (21 December – 18 January) while also guiding their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Zidane’s inclusion will intensify competition for the number one jersey.
Currently contracted to Granada in Spain’s La Liga 2, Zidane began the season as first-choice goalkeeper before an ankle injury in March threatened his place. Nonetheless, his experience across Spain’s top two divisions, coupled with his pedigree, renders him a significant addition to the national set-up.
The move also extends the Zidane family’s enduring footballing legacy. Luca’s younger brother, Elyaz, was recently called up by France for the FIFA U20 World Cup.
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