France have never been the same since the great man hung up his boots. After that 2006 World Cup, everybody bowed down and paid homage to one of the GREATEST footballers to have ever played the game. The fact that he did not lead France to victory, but was so revered after the tournament ended in acrimonious circumstances shows the talent of the man. But since then, France have faltered and fallen to the depths with 2010 being the lowest point. But a new coach, young players and looking good in friendlies, are France finally ready to move on from Zidane?
This may be a World Cup too soon for him to make a huge impact, but even at just twenty-one, he is easily one of France's best players. It's up to Deschamps to really urge him to take up that mantle and lead this talented team to go as far as possible.
The issue with France has always been that leader. Ribery was just a very good player but just PART of the team. In the matches that they drew or lost, they always played well, moved the ball nicely, but lack of a definition. That comes from a playmaker and a player who demands the ball and can set the tone and pace of the game. It's what Zidane did, and his performances forced all those around him to raise their game to try and match him. Didier needs a player to that, and the only guy that I can see doing so is Pogba. He has the ability, he has the character and he should at least ATTEMPT to try and take the pressure. He is no Ozil, I believe he would welcome and thrive on the pressure on being France's leader.
They have looked good in their friendlies, have scored goals freely and they go into the World Cup with confidence. But when it starts for real, it's no longer a friendly against Jamaica or Norway. They will need to raise their game even higher and try and finally show that they are no longer crying and begging for Zidane's return. It is time France have a new superstar and a new dawn.
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