Jeremy Jacquet earns impressive praise in Liverpool in 2026
Jeremy Jacquet, a 21-year-old defender who recently joined Liverpool, has earned high praise from France manager Zinedine Zidane following a standout display for Les Bleus in a recent match against...
Jeremy Jacquet, a 21-year-old defender who recently joined Liverpool, has earned high praise from France manager Zinedine Zidane following a standout display for Les Bleus in a recent match against Italy. The early impressions from his move to Anfield appear to be translating onto the international stage, with Zidane publicly lauding the youngster after the game.
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Zidane lauds Jacquet after France-Italy showing
Following the France-Italy clash, Zidane did not shy away from singling out Jacquet for particular commendation. He described the Liverpool debutant as “very good. Very, very good,” before elaborating on his attributes: “Brave. He wasn’t afraid to come out a long way. Very good in the duels. He was, once again, very good. I said it four times.”
Jacquet on France camp and tactical role
Reflecting on his experience with the France squad, Jacquet told reporters the environment exceeded his expectations: “It’s been better than I imagined. To train with all these great players, it’s just a great pleasure. I’m just trying to make the most of every moment.”
On how he fits into Zidane’s plans, Jacquet explained the coach asked him to press aggressively higher up the pitch and not look behind him. “It was an instruction from the coach. He asked me to press very high up the pitch and not look behind me. I was just following that instruction… I’m quite happy. I don’t feel any pressure. I’m just playing my football.” The defender added that the high-press approach aligns with the style he has practiced at club level with Andoni Iraola.
Context: why Zidane’s praise matters
Jacquet’s strong start at Liverpool, coupled with his composed showing for France, serves two clear purposes. First, the acclaim validates Liverpool’s decision to recruit a young defender capable of operating in a high-press system. Second, Zidane’s public support elevates Jacquet’s profile internationally and signals trust ahead of upcoming fixtures for both club and country.
At 21, Jacquet remains an emerging talent. Regular first-team minutes at Anfield, combined with exposure to international football under Zidane, could accelerate his development. Playing in high-intensity systems—whether under Andoni Iraola at club level or Zidane with France—tests a defender’s decision-making, positioning and willingness to engage opponents near the ball.
What happens next
Jacquet returns to Liverpool after the international break with momentum from his France outing. In the weeks ahead, observers will watch whether he can sustain club form and translate Zidane’s confidence into consistent selections for both sides. Liverpool is expected to manage his minutes carefully to support his development while protecting fitness.
For France, Zidane’s endorsement suggests Jacquet remains in consideration for future squads, particularly in tactical setups that rely on a high defensive line and intense pressing. Updates on team selections and rotations will clarify his role as the season progresses.
Source: Original report
