Zinedine Zidane's Son Luca Suffers Fractured Jaw, Could Miss World Cup
Luca Zidane fractures jaw, Algeria World Cup hopes hit
Granada goalkeeper Luca Zidane suffered a fractured jaw and chin in a Spanish second-division match against Almeria on Sunday, casting doubt on his availability for Algeria's 2026 World Cup campaign. The 27-year-old collided with Almeria striker Thalys and left the pitch with an initial concussion diagnosis. Medical tests later confirmed the facial fractures, Granada said in a club statement.
The Marseille-born player, son of France great Zinedine Zidane, switched allegiance to Algeria last year based on his paternal grandparents' heritage. He has become a regular for the Fennecs under coach Vladimir Petkovic, starting four of five matches at the last Africa Cup of Nations and playing the full 90 minutes in a recent goalless draw against Uruguay.
Granada's statement noted that Zidane, in consultation with medical staff, will decide on treatment in coming hours, with surgery a likely option that would extend his absence beyond the domestic season. Algeria open their World Cup against Argentina on June 16 in Kansas City, giving the keeper limited time to recover.
Petkovic will monitor Zidane's situation closely, with alternatives needed between the posts if the injury proves too severe for the North American tournament.
