Jules Koundé has described a demanding but positive start under Zinédine Zidane, with France’s vice-captain welcoming the new coach’s close contact with his players ahead of Monday’s meeting with Belgium.
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France will complete their first international gathering under Zidane at the Stade de France on Monday, with kick-off scheduled for 20:45. Koundé said the former Real Madrid coach and his staff have quickly made an impression inside the camp.
“It has gone very well,” the right-back said. “He is a coach who stays close to the players and likes to talk, both on the pitch and away from it. His staff are the same. They are available to offer advice and help us improve.”
Koundé did not want to draw comparisons with previous regimes, but identified a clear intention from the new France manager: a more aggressive team capable of controlling matches.
For the Barcelona defender, that approach also involves improvement on the ball. He said Zidane wants him to contribute to France’s possession game, to push forward when opportunities arise and to play with greater purpose in forward areas.
Koundé admitted he still has room to grow, particularly by reducing loose actions in possession and adding more vertical passing to his game. His manager’s request for him to support attacks, he said, is not entirely new, but fits the wider collective plan.
The 27-year-old rejected the suggestion that added competition under Zidane has left him feeling vulnerable. “There has always been strong competition with France because there is so much quality available,” he said. “It is motivation. The main battle is with myself.”
He also addressed his reduced minutes at Barcelona this season, making clear that there is no injury behind the situation. Koundé said it is Hansi Flick’s decision and accepted that his performances last season did not meet his own expectations.
“It is a challenge I accept,” he said. “I need to get my feeling back, because I know that when I reach my best level, I can play.”
Koundé reserved praise for Michael Olise, the attacking player he can link with down France’s right flank. He highlighted Olise’s technique, work for the team, finishing and passing ability.
He also backed goalkeeper Mike Maignan to maintain his standards following the arrival of Zidane’s staff. Koundé said Maignan remains intensely focused on detail, video work and perfection, adding that the squad recognises the keeper’s quality.
Asked about the end of Monday-morning fashion arrivals around the national team, Koundé was relaxed. He said he dresses principally for himself, while acknowledging that cameras are always waiting.
Next appointment in France
France face Belgium at the Stade de France on Monday at 20:45, bringing their opening camp under Zidane to a close.
