Zidane reinvents France, Koné's sentinel intrigues Italy
During his impressive debut in charge of France in Izmit, Zinedine Zidane not only imposed his side against Turkey (0-1), but also unveiled a tactical innovation that immediately captivated European observers.
While analysts expected a classic midfield setup, the new boss of the Bleus placed Manu Koné in the role of a deep‑lying axial sentinel, integrated into the very attacking 4‑3‑4 that Zidane had prepared. This decision immediately changed the dynamics of the Bleus.
An unexpected axial sentinel
This spectacular repositioning caused a sensation in Italy, where Koné plays under the colours of AS Rome. In the system, he recovered six balls, made two decisive interceptions and won nine duels out of fifteen, ensuring iron discipline. Italian commentators often refer to him simply by the nickname “Kon”.
Zidane immediately praised the performance: “Manu was very effective. It’s not his usual position at club level, I wanted specifically to observe his behaviour in this precise role. And he demonstrated a simply remarkable balance.” Previously, under Gian Piero Gasperini, Koné was a “box‑to‑box” midfielder.
Italian reactions and prospects
He described the feat as a “masterpiece of tactical compensation”, even suggesting an inspiration for Gian Piero Gasperini at Roma. Roma supporters wonder whether the club, usually employing a double pivot, will adopt Koné as the tempo regulator in Serie A and the Champions League.
This reinvention recalls Didier Deschamps’s brief experiment at San Siro in 2024, where he tested the same axial role against Italy. Since then, Koné has settled permanently with the Bleus, offering coaches an unprecedented perspective to secure offensive surges.
In 90 minutes against Turkey, the player trained in Toulouse proved he could be far more than a simple impact‑recovery man, displaying the qualities of a true midfield master and thereby increasing his appeal to major European clubs. His development already attracts interest from several top‑level teams.