Luca Zidane, the Algerian goalkeeper and son of FIFA World Cup legend Zinedine Zidane, has disclosed that he collaborates with a psychologist to manage pressure. Currently representing the Desert Foxes at the World Cup, Zidane faced significant criticism following his performance in the opening match against Argentina.
In a conversation with The Sun, Zidane Jr discussed his career and the impact that working with a psychologist has had on maintaining his mental fitness. He also shared that his mother, rather than his famous father, tends to critique his games more.
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“I started working with a mental coach but until now I had never talked about it. For me it has changed my life, especially in football, because today, it is just as important to be mentally fit as it is physically.
In my family we talk a lot about football, but not with my father. My father doesn’t interfere with what I have to do. My mother does. When I get home after a match, my mother asks me, ‘Why did you do that?’ My father, very rarely,” he said.
In 2025, Luca Zidane switched his national allegiance from France to Algeria and participated in the AFCON earlier this year. He made his FIFA World Cup debut against Argentina, where he faced criticism as Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in a 3-0 victory for the reigning champions.
Zidane, who plays for Granada, chose to continue his career in Spain’s second division after coming up through the ranks at Real Madrid. The 28-year-old is now a key player for both his club and country.
Luca Zidane Shines as Algeria Secures World Cup Victory
Luca Zidane started in goal for Algeria, helping the team secure three points in their FIFA World Cup match against Jordan. The Desert Foxes staged a comeback to win 2-1, marking their first victory in the tournament since 2014.
Jordan’s Nizar Al-Rashdan scored in the 36th minute, putting the debutants ahead against the run of play. Algeria equalized in the 69th minute when Nadir Benbouali headed in a corner from Riyad Mahrez.
Amine Gouiri completed the comeback for the Desert Foxes with a goal in the 82nd minute, securing a crucial win over Jordan. This victory keeps Algeria’s hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stages alive as they prepare for a decisive match against Austria, aiming for a top-two finish.
