Zinédine Zidane's first steps as the head coach of the French national team have been marked by a significant overhaul of the team's communication strategy. On September 18, 2026, Zidane made his first public announcement of the squad list, but unlike previous coaches, he did not personally announce the names of the 23 selected players. Instead, the former Canal+ journalist Xavier Giraudon delivered the announcement through a video clip, signaling a new approach to the team's communication strategy. This marked a departure from the more personal and direct style of previous coaches, such as Didier Deschamps, and reflected Zidane’s preference for a more controlled and strategic approach. One of the most notable changes was the decision to prohibit photographers from taking pictures of players arriving at the Clairefontaine training center, which had previously become a fashion show for the players. Zidane emphasized that the focus should be on the training center itself rather than the players' appearances. This decision was accompanied by a broader strategy to control the images and information coming out of the team, aiming to create a more secluded environment for the players. The move was intended to minimize distractions and ensure that the players could concentrate on their training and performance. The new communication strategy has led to a reduction in the number of behind-the-scenes content, such as YouTube videos that had previously been popular with fans. This has resulted in a noticeable change in the content available to the public, with fewer insights into the team's daily life and activities. While this shift has been criticized by some fans who miss the personal connection with the players, others have welcomed the focus on performance and results. The change has also raised questions about the balance between transparency and privacy in modern sports. The impact of this strategy on the public has been mixed, with some fans expressing disappointment over the lack of content, while others appreciate the focus on performance and results. Experts in sports communication have noted that Zidane's approach aligns with his personality, emphasizing a more reserved and focused approach compared to his predecessor, Didier Deschamps. The new strategy also aims to protect the players, particularly Kylian Mbappé, from excessive public scrutiny and pressure. Zidane's approach is seen as a way to create a more sacred and focused environment at Clairefontaine, where the primary focus is on the game itself rather than the players' personal lives or public appearances. Despite the changes, there have been moments where the team has opened up to the press, such as during training sessions, but overall, the communication strategy has become more controlled and selective. This approach reflects Zidane's background as a coach at Real Madrid, where he understood the balance between engaging with fans and maintaining a focus on performance and excellence. By limiting the flow of information, Zidane aims to ensure that the French national team can operate with the same level of concentration and discipline that contributed to his success as a player and coach.