A subtle smile and an admiring look beneath his black cap. Zinedine Zidane, former player and former coach of Real Madrid, was a witness to Kylian Mbappé's impressive performance in Real Madrid's 3-1 victory over Manchester City during the second leg of the Champions League playoff, last Wednesday. Zidane, who has been a key figure in the recent history of the Madrid club, did not hide his happiness seeing his compatriot score a spectacular ‘hat-trick’ in the Spanish capital, further cementing his status as a global football star.

Kylian Mbappé's reaction to Zidane

When asked about Zidane's reaction to his brilliant performance, Kylian Mbappé showed sincere enthusiasm. "If my game made Zizou smile, I’m the happiest kid in the world. Zizou is an idol to me, as a Frenchman and now as a Madridista", said the PSG forward. For Mbappé, Zidane represents a role model and someone who has left an indelible mark on the history of the sport.

The possibility of Zinedine Zidane becoming the future coach of the French national team is looking increasingly real. After several seasons away from the sidelines, Zidane is emerging as a strong candidate to succeed Didier Deschamps, who will leave his post after the 2026 World Cup: “Zinedine Zidane as the next coach of the French national team? He is a great candidate.”

Mbappé's dream of playing under Zidane's orders

The possibility of Zidane taking the role of coach for France after the 2026 World Cup is becoming more and more likely, which would fill Mbappé with excitement. Since his arrival at Real Madrid as a young prospect, Zidane has always been a crucial figure for him, being the one to introduce him to the club and his primary mentor.

What once seemed like a distant dream is now shaping up to be a tangible possibility. If Zidane finally takes on the role of coach of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter where Mbappé reunites with his idol.