Goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football icon Zinedine Zidane, has officially committed his international future to Algeria.
FIFA confirmed the 27-year-old’s change of association on Friday via its “Change of Association Platform,” clearing him to represent the Fennecs in upcoming competitions.
Born in Marseille, Luca rose through France’s youth system, earning caps from U16 to U20 and winning the UEFA U17 European Championship in 2015. However, his pathway to the French senior team stalled, prompting him to embrace his Algerian heritage through his paternal grandparents.
His decision comes at a crucial time for Algeria. Coach Vladimir Petković is preparing the team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco (December 21–January 18) while also steering them toward qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Zidane’s addition will bolster competition in the goalkeeping department.
Currently on the books of Granada in Spain’s La Liga 2, Zidane started the season as first-choice before an ankle injury in March put his spot at risk. Nevertheless, his experience across Spain’s top two divisions, combined with his pedigree, makes him a valuable reinforcement.
The switch also continues the Zidane family’s footballing legacy, with Luca’s younger brother, Elyaz, recently called up by France for the U20 World Cup.
