Luca Zidane chooses Algeria over France after FIFA approves his switch, paving the way for a possible 2026 World Cup debut

The 27-year-old goalkeeper, son of French World Cup icon Zinedine Zidane, was born near Marseille and featured for France at youth level. However, FIFA has now approved his decision to change allegiance to Algeria, the nation of his father’s heritage.

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The move opens the door for Luca to potentially feature at the 2026 World Cup in North America, with Algeria just one step away from qualification ahead of a decisive clash with Somalia next month.

Zidane is the second of four brothers who all passed through Real Madrid’s academy. He made his professional debut for the Spanish giants in the 2017–18 season before stints with Rayo Vallecano and Eibar.

In 2024, he signed for Granada, where he currently plays in La Liga.

His father Zinedine Zidane, remembered as one of the greatest players of all time, famously scored twice in France’s 1998 World Cup final victory over Brazil and also starred in the 2006 final against Italy.

For Algeria, Luca Zidane’s commitment is a boost to their ambitions, while for France it marks the loss of another talented footballer with dual heritage. The switch has already sparked passionate debate among fans in both nations.