France are fine-tuning their preparations to host Italy in the Nations League this Friday (20:45) at the Stade de France, buoyed by two opening wins. Midfielder Manu Koné provided insight into the squad's atmosphere and his adaptation to manager Zinedine Zidane's demands during a press conference on Wednesday.

The French national team approaches this fixture from a position of strength, leading their Nations League group after victories in Turkey (0-1) and Belgium (0-1). Their next challenge is to confirm this form against an Italy side in a rebuilding phase.

Adapting to Zidane

Manu Koné spoke at length about the work of the new manager. "We will start with the same dynamic to work on the two matches coming up. We will do what the coach asks of us," he said. The AS Roma player highlighted the squad's adaptability and the pride Zidane shows in them. He also noted tactical differences from the previous era, mentioning the use of a low pivot and two linking players.

Koné, who has operated as a holding midfielder in training, said the role is not new to him. He was particularly impressed by his coach's enduring technical quality. "What shocked me the most is his technical palette, to see that he still has that technique, I tell myself that in his era, it must have been incredible," confessed the midfielder. Zidane has simply asked him to play freely, an instruction the player is striving to follow.

A renewed atmosphere

The 25-year-old praised the expanded backroom staff, which he feels responds better to player needs, especially regarding care and pitchside support. He also discussed the internal competition, calling it healthy and motivating to meet the coach's expectations. Koné also had a thought for his club teammate and upcoming opponent Mike Maignan, describing the AC Milan goalkeeper as a vocal leader and a great teammate, while acknowledging he will be tough to beat.

Away from the training pitch, Ousmane Dembélé and Dayot Upamecano enjoyed some downtime in Paris after the Belgium match, taking an electric scooter ride captured on social media. Meanwhile, the Irrésistibles Français group called for respect of national anthems before matches at the Stade de France, following whistles heard during the away fixtures.

In the youth setup, Gerald Baticle has had to deal with the withdrawals of Ethan Mbappé (Lille) and Senny Mayulu (PSG), who were injured during the U21s' win over Estonia (2-0). Both players left the camp in agreement with the medical staff of the French Federation and their clubs for further examinations. Baticle has recalled Dehmaine Tabibou from FC Nantes as a replacement.

With Kylian Mbappé having scored ten goals this season, France now focus squarely on the schedule and their clash with Italy. The team's final open training session for the media took place on Wednesday afternoon, the last step before the final tactical preparations.

Background and full detail: RMC Sport Football