At Clairefontaine, the familiar arrival parade had a different feel on Monday as France’s players reported for their first gathering under Zinédine Zidane.
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The new France coach altered the usual routine at the national training centre, with journalists and photographers not permitted to watch the players arrive. Images from the gathering were instead released by the French Football Federation.
For several seasons, the Clairefontaine arrivals have become a small fashion event alongside the start of international duty. This time, most of the squad chose understated outfits, including Estéban Lepaul, Lucas Da Cunha, Maxence Lacroix, Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembélé.
Others maintained a more distinctive approach. Jules Koundé again stood out with a carefully assembled look, while Manu Koné also made an effort with his appearance. Ibrahima Konaté arrived in a suit-and-tie style, adding a tie to his outfit.
The closed arrival marked one of Zidane’s first changes as France manager, moving the players’ first moments at Clairefontaine away from the usual media spotlight.
