Luca Zidane, the Zidane son, is set for a World Cup appearance with Algeria after choosing last autumn to represent the country. The Granada goalkeeper will be in goal against defending champions Argentina in Kansas City on Tuesday.
Luca Zidane and Algeria
Zidane said the choice was his own after speaking with his family, including his parents, brothers and grandfather. “We’ve lived in an Algerian culture since we were small,” he said, adding, “It’s an honour to play for Algeria.”
He made his international debut in October and then played at the Africa Cup of Nations. Algeria reached the World Cup after that, and Zidane is now part of the squad as the team prepares to face Lionel Messi and Argentina.
Madrid roots for Luca Zidane
Zidane was born in France and has lived most of his life in Spain. His paternal grandparents were born in Algeria, and the family home has been in Madrid since 2001, the year Zinedine Zidane joined Real Madrid.
He came through Real Madrid’s youth system, was first choice for the under-18 side during its run to the 2015-16 UEFA Youth League semi-finals, and later played eight games for Castilla in 2016-17 alongside his older brother Enzo. Enzo retired from football in 2024 at age 29 after his final season with Fuenlabrada.
Argentina test in Kansas City
Zidane called Messi “one of the greatest players in history,” but said, “But Algeria is a big football nation. We can surprise people.” He also pointed to Algeria’s attack, saying, “And we have our own threats: (Riyad) Mahrez is a great player too.”
The matchup gives Zidane a direct stage in the tournament after years in Spain and one international switch that was settled last autumn. His place against Argentina ties his family name to Algeria’s World Cup campaign in the clearest way yet.
