Luca Zidane Chooses Algerian National Team: Family Ties and Path from Father's Shadow

The name Zidane has always been synonymous with France. Yet, at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, that name will be emblazoned on the jersey of the Algerian national team. Luca Zidane, son of French Football Legend Zinedine Zidane, made a significant decision to represent Algeria.

This decision wasn't solely based on career considerations, but also on identity, family, and emotional ties.

Despite previously representing France at junior levels, the 27-year-old goalkeeper chose to follow his family roots. His closeness to Algerian culture, particularly through his grandfather, was the main reason behind his choice.

Luca Zidane revealed that whenever he thinks of Algeria, he remembers his grandfather. Since childhood, he added, Algerian culture has been deeply ingrained in his family.

The support of his family, especially his grandfather, provided a strong foundation for his decision.

"I spoke to him before joining the national team, and he was very happy with this step. Every time I get called up, he always calls and says I made the right decision and he's proud of me," Luca told BeIN Sports France on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

This switch of nationality is somewhat unusual as it occurred at the age of 27, when many players are already established at the international level. 

However, for Luca, this is a way to forge his own identity, distinct from his father's shadow. 

From the start of his career, he even chose the goalkeeper position, different from his father, who was a legendary midfielder.

Luca added that once the Algerian federation and coach contacted him, his desire solidified immediately, and his family welcomed the decision positively.

After officially representing Algeria, Luca was entrusted as the first-choice goalkeeper. He helped Algeria, under coach Vladimir Petkovic, defeat Sudan 3-0 in their opening Group E match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. His father, Zinedine Zidane, witnessed that victory firsthand.

At the club level, Luca plays for Granada in Spain after starting his career at Real Madrid. Interestingly, while playing for clubs, he has always worn "Luca" on the back of his jersey. However, with the Algerian national team, he chose to display "Zidane".

"For me, being able to honor my grandfather by joining the national team is very important. The next jersey with the name on the back will be dedicated to him," he said.

From France to Algeria, from his father's shadow to his own chosen path. Luca Zidane's decision is a story about How Football is not just about the country you represent, but about home, memories, and personal identity.