The Zidane name has returned to football’s biggest stage, but under different colours.
While football fans worldwide associate the surname with France legend Zinedine Zidane, his son Luca Zidane is representing Algeria at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The goalkeeper has attracted significant attention during the tournament because of both his family background and his international football journey.
Having progressed through the youth ranks of French football before switching allegiance to Algeria, Luca is now writing a story of his own on the international stage.
Who is Luca Zidane?
Luca Zidane is the second son of former France captain and World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane. Born in Marseille, France, he developed through Real Madrid’s youth academy before pursuing a professional career in Spanish football.
The goalkeeper represented France at multiple youth levels, including the Under-17, Under-19 and Under-20 teams. Over the years, he built his career in Spain and has represented clubs including Granada.
Despite carrying one of football’s most famous surnames, Luca has worked to establish himself independently as a professional goalkeeper.
Why is Luca Zidane eligible to play for Algeria?
Although Luca Zidane was born in France, he qualifies for Algeria through his family heritage.
His grandparents on his father’s side were of Algerian origin, allowing him to represent Algeria under FIFA eligibility regulations. After previously playing for France at youth level, Luca switched his international sporting nationality and became part of Algeria’s senior national team setup in 2025.
The move gave him the opportunity to compete for Algeria at the senior international level and eventually earn selection for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Building a career beyond the Zidane legacy
Carrying the Zidane surname naturally brings attention and expectations. However, Luca has largely focused on building his own football career rather than relying on comparisons with his father.
His decision to represent Algeria has allowed him to embrace his family’s roots while pursuing opportunities at the highest level of international football. The choice has also made him one of the notable stories of Algeria’s World Cup campaign.
Football observers have viewed the move as a reflection of both personal heritage and professional ambition.
Luca Zidane’s World Cup 2026 journey
Algeria secured qualification for FIFA World Cup 2026, and Luca Zidane earned a place in the squad as one of the team’s goalkeepers.
The goalkeeper attracted additional attention during the tournament after appearing with a protective facial mask. Earlier in 2026, he suffered a jaw and chin fracture during a club match but recovered in time to be available for Algeria’s World Cup campaign.
Reuters reported that Luca Zidane started in goal for Algeria during the team’s World Cup match against Argentina, confirming his participation on football’s biggest stage.
A new chapter for the Zidane family
Zinedine Zidane remains one of the most celebrated players in football history after helping France win the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
For Luca Zidane, however, the World Cup represents an opportunity to create a separate identity. By representing Algeria, he has followed a different international path while honouring his family’s Algerian heritage.
As Algeria continues its World Cup journey, Luca Zidane has the chance to add his own chapter to one of football’s most famous family names.
Also read: FIFA World Cup 2026 set to begin with historic 48-team format across USA, Canada and Mexico
