Zinedine Zidane's Son Represents Algeria at World Cup

Luca Zidane, son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, will represent Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.

He was named in Algeria's squad alongside goalkeepers Oussama Benbot and Melvin Mastil.

Why Luca Zidane can play for Algeria

Luca Zidane was born in France and played for France at youth level, but FIFA allows players to change sporting nationality in certain circumstances.

His switch was approved after he had represented France at junior level but had not become locked into the France senior side.

Zinedine Zidane's parents were of Algerian heritage, giving Luca a direct family link to the country.

Luca has spoken about the importance of his Algerian heritage and his grandfather's influence.

He said: "When I think of Algeria, I remember my grandfather."

The simple answer is that he chose Algeria once the route became open.

France had been part of his development path, and he was involved in the youth setup that won the 2015 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.

But youth football is not the same as a senior international career.

This should not simply be framed as a rejection of France.

It is a footballer using a legitimate international route and choosing the country that best reflects his identity and opportunity.

Algeria offered Zidane a senior international future and a chance to compete at the World Cup.

As of the 2026 World Cup, Luca Zidane is 28 years old and plays for Granada in Spain.

He came through Real Madrid's academy before building his senior career in Spain.

Algeria are in Group J with Argentina, Austria, and Jordan, which gives Zidane's involvement a major World Cup storyline.

The decision was also personal rather than purely sporting.

Luca's path is different from his father's, who won the 1998 World Cup with France.

Zinedine Zidane became one of France's defining sporting figures.

Luca is carrying the same surname, but doing so for Algeria, the country connected to the Zidane family's roots.