Zidane: What Olise offers is exceptional, and I am happy with the four matches

Zinedine Zidane, the head coach of France, has shown great admiration for the level of performance exhibited by Michael Olise, following his contribution to the national team's 4-2 win against Belgium in the UEFA Nations League.

France's coach said: "It's true that the second half changed a lot compared to the first, even though it wasn't completely bad. We lacked some sharpness in the final meters, and this has also shown in our other matches."

He added: "I am happy with the players who came on as substitutes, because the reaction was not just from them, but from the whole team. We finished this gathering very positively, and it was disappointing to end it without achieving a win."

When asked if Olise is the best player in the world, Zinedine Zidane smiled and replied: "Olise? I have nothing to say. What he does is just exceptional."

Zinedine Zidane also spoke about the presence of Aimé Jacquet, the former coach of France, during the match: "Aimé represents kindness and care for me. I was very happy to have him there. He is a wonderful person. I went to see him because I know he doesn't go out much, and it was really nice for him to be present."

Regarding his assessment of the first gathering period with the France national team, Zinedine Zidane expressed his satisfaction with the results achieved by the team, stating: "I am happy because we gathered 10 points, and that is very good. I feel satisfied with the work we have done with the coaching staff and the players. We spent 15 days at a very high level."

He also clarified that there are aspects that need development, adding: "Of course, there are things that need to be improved. We have to push more players into the penalty area to be more effective, but this will come with time."

Speaking about his best moments at the start of his mission, Zidane said: "The best memory for me was when I saw the players for the first time in Clairefontaine. I chose this profession and dreamed of it. Now I will feel frustrated for a few days, then I will continue working by following the players."

Zidane also praised the debut of young defender Lenny Euro, confirming that he had a strong match despite the fierce competition for his position.

He said: "There are many players in this position. When we lost Brahim Konaté due to injury, we immediately wanted to call up Lenny. I am happy for him because he had a great match and performed his role well. And I am happy for all these young players in the France national team."

Regarding his starting lineup for the upcoming international break, Zinedine Zidane refused to reveal any hints, saying: "No, I have nothing to say. We are satisfied with the four matches and with the entire gathering period."

He concluded his remarks about the participation of the young goalkeeper Guillaume Restes: "He was fantastic, not just in the match, but throughout the camp. Our three goalkeepers were great, and even Jean Butez was excellent in training. I decided to include Guillaume because he needs to understand what it means to play for France, not just in training, but also on the pitch and in matches, in case anything happens to Mike Maignan."