In this article, we will learn about Luca Zidane and his performance against Argentina, which left the football world in shock.
On 16th June, the 2026 World Cup audience was left in shock as legendary Lionel Messi scored the tournament’s first hat-trick, propelling Argentina to a decisive victory.
However, during the jubilation, Algeria’s custodian suddenly became a talking topic, attracting notice for both his distinctive on-field attire and the surname on his jersey.
Who is Luca Zidane? Since the start of the tournament, spectators have been asking the same question. With insights from USA Today, Sporting News, and World Soccer News, here’s all you need to know about the international footballer.
Who is Luca Zidane?
Luca Zidane, born on May 13, 1998, is the son of renowned footballer Zinedine Zidane. He made his debut with Real Madrid’s youth system and Real Madrid B in 2016, toward the end of the 2017-18 season.
Throughout his playing career, the 28-year-old has bounced around numerous clubs in Spain, including a brief stint as a free agent for a few months. After two years at Rayo Vallecano, Luca Zidane signed for Elbar on a free transfer in 2022. Today, the custodian plays for Spanish team Granada under a deal that runs from 2024 to June 2027.
Luca Zidane proved his importance ahead of the 2026 World Cup by keeping a clean sheet against the Netherlands, making six saves that helped Algeria win 1-0 on June 3.
Why does Luca Zidane play for Algeria?
Luca Zidane was born in Aix-en-Provence, France, and possesses three citizenships: French by birth, Spanish through his mother, and Algerian through his paternal genealogy.
According to multiple publications, the Algerian custodian has yet to make a competitive senior appearance for the French national team. However, Zidane ultimately decided to honour his grandparents by representing Algeria, their home nation.
In September 2025, FIFA formally accepted his request for an official change of federation.
“We’ve lived in an Algerian culture since we were small,” Zidane told The Athletic. “It’s an honour to play for Algeria. The final decision was mine, but I spoke with my family, my parents, my brothers, my grandfather. My father was happy, he knew it was something I wanted to do. To be able to play in a World Cup is a dream for any kid.”
Why does Luca Zidane wear a mask?
Luca Zidane’s distinctive gear on the pitch at the 2026 World Cup is a specialised protective face mask manufactured by his medical team.
The French-born player sustained a shattered jaw, chin, and serious concussion as a result of an unsettling aerial collision during a match against Almeria for his club Granada in late April.
With questions over whether he’d be ready for the 2026 World Cup, the shot-stopper eventually won his battle against time. Ahead of the competition, he told reporters that his rehabilitation was going well, saying, “I’m doing well, I don’t have any pain anymore. The surgery went well and five weeks have passed now. I returned to training on the pitch two weeks ago and I’m very happy.”
From having one of football’s most recognisable surnames to recovering from a devastating facial injury only weeks before kickoff, Luca Zidane has demonstrated both resilience and commitment on the sport’s biggest stage.
