The 2026/27 Nations League is set to kick off, featuring several high-profile coaches making their international debuts. Among them are Zinedine Zidane, the newly appointed France coach, and Jurgen Klopp, who has taken over as Germany's national team coach. This FIFA window marks the beginning of the build-up to the 2030 World Cup. The new season of the Nations League promises to be exciting, with many top coaches starting their international journeys.
Zinedine Zidane's appointment as France coach has generated significant excitement. The 1998 World Cup winner and France legend succeeded Didier Deschamps, who announced that the 2026 World Cup would be the end of his 14-year reign as France boss. Zidane's first matches in charge will be against Turkey and Belgium, followed by a home game against Italy at the Stade de France on October 2.
Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, has also been welcomed with enthusiasm in Germany. Klopp made his name in football as a coach, having managed Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool, and will begin his adventure with Germany against the Netherlands in Amsterdam and at home to Greece. He has called up 44 players, divided into two squads, for his first matches in charge.
Other notable coaches making their debuts in the Nations League include Jorge Jesus, who will lead Portugal against Wales, and Xavi Hernandez, the new Netherlands coach. Roberto Mancini, who masterminded Italy's Euro 2020 victory, returns to try and improve the Azzurri's performance. Mark van Bommel will oversee his first Belgium match against Italy, while Slaven Bilic takes over the Croatia reins for a second time.
The Nations League will also feature Spain's World Cup and European Championship-winning coach, Luis de la Fuente, who has extended his contract until 2032. His team will begin their title defense with a match against England at Wembley on Saturday. England will be managed by Thomas Tuchel, who will be looking to make a strong impression.
Zinedine Zidane expressed his excitement about taking over as France coach, saying it's the only job he wanted. He turned down several offers to take charge of a club over the past few years to wait for the French national team opportunity. Zidane's first matches will be a good test of his abilities, and fans will be eager to see how he performs.
Jurgen Klopp also expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating that it's the high point of his career. He will give his all to the German national team and has already made a bold move by calling up 44 players for his first matches. The Nations League will provide a platform for these new coaches to showcase their skills and prepare their teams for the 2030 World Cup.
Key points
- Zinedine Zidane and Jurgen Klopp are among the star coaches making their international debuts in the Nations League.
