Luca Zidane, the goalkeeper and son of 1998 World Cup champion Zinedine Zidane, confirmed that his grandfather encouraged him to change his international allegiance to Algeria, ending his time with France at youth level. The 27-year-old explained that the choice connected to his family’s roots, describing memories of growing up surrounded by Algerian traditions.
Luca Zidane, the goalkeeper and son of 1998 World Cup champion Zinedine Zidane, confirmed that his grandfather encouraged him to change his international allegiance to Algeria, ending his time with France at youth level. The 27-year-old explained that the choice connected to his family’s roots, describing memories of growing up surrounded by Algerian traditions.
His father, an iconic figure for Les Bleus and winner of the Ballon d’Or in 1998, stood behind his son’s decision. According to Luca, the former midfielder offered guidance while reminding him that the ultimate call needed to be his own. The switch took many by surprise, considering his age and his history in the French development system.
Luca revealed that every selection for Algeria is followed by a call from his grandfather, who praises his decision and expresses pride. For the goalkeeper, that emotional validation has become a defining element of this new stage in his career.
Shortly after making his commitment, Luca became the leading choice between the posts for Vladimir Petković’s squad. He featured in Algeria’s 3-0 victory over Sudan in their Group E opener at the Africa Cup of Nations. His father was present in the stadium to watch the match unfold.
The Granada player was rarely threatened during the encounter, but did deliver a crucial stop from a dangerous effort by Yaser Awad while the scoreline remained narrow. It was a moment that confirmed his role and justified the confidence shown in him by the staff.
Having launched his professional journey at Real Madrid before moving to Spain’s top flight, Luca now feels he has found a place where his identity and ambitions align. The decision marks a new chapter separate from comparisons with his father, which he avoided early on by choosing to pursue life as a goalkeeper.
Despite usually wearing a shirt labelled only with his first name, Luca elected to display his surname for national team duty. The change, he said, is linked to honouring the man who influenced his choice to play for Algeria — his grandfather.
Zinedine Zidane, remembered as the inspiration behind France’s triumphs at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, has observed his son’s journey with both pride and distance. His own legacy includes a red card in the 2006 World Cup final, a Champions League title in 2002, and a commanding reputation that still shapes football history.
For Luca, representing Algeria is about more than sport. It is a tribute to family history and a declaration of belonging. He said the next jersey with the family name will be a gift to the person who helped guide him to this point, symbolising gratitude as much as ambition.
