Zinedine Zidane hails Liverpool defender Jeremy Jacquet
Jérémy JacquetLiverpool defender Jeremy Jacquet has earned glowing praise from France boss Zinedine Zidane after his impressive showings for the national team.
The 21-year-old defender, who completed a summer move to Merseyside from Rennes in a transfer potentially worth £60million, has quickly made an impression.
The youngster recently made his senior bow for Les Bleus, keeping a clean sheet during a narrow 1-0 win against Belgium. He retained his spot in the starting line-up for the subsequent UEFA Nations League fixture against Italy at the Stade de France.
Zidane was left frustrated by the result of his maiden home match at the helm, which ended in a 1-1 draw after Michael Olise’s spectacular free-kick was cancelled out by a deflected Alessandro Bastoni strike. However, the legendary Frenchman was full of praise for the Liverpool defender. Speaking in his post-game press conference, Zidane said:
“He’s not afraid to go out far, he was very good in the duels.”
The French manager was so impressed by the youngster’s composure that he felt compelled to reiterate his thoughts. Speaking to reporters after the match, Zidane said:
“Very good in the duels. He was, once again, very good. I said it four times.”
A dazzling display in Paris
The centre-back won all of his tackles and misplaced just one of his 80 passes during the match, whilst also recording two interceptions and two clearances. His dominant defensive showing helped keep Italy at bay during a close contest.
Eurosport France handed him a 7.5 rating and described the former Rennes player as monstrous, pointing out how unusual it is to see someone so young play with such immense poise.
In addition, Le Parisien termed his display both dazzling and stunning. His defensive resilience proved vital after Dayot Upamecano was sent off for a second yellow card, leaving the hosts to play the final ten minutes with ten men.
Maxifoot also praised his aggressive nature, describing his defending inside the penalty area as impeccable during a powerful and authoritative performance.
Adapting to life under Zidane
For Jacquet, the step up to the senior international stage has been a seamless transition after being a regular at youth level. Speaking to reporters after the match, Jacquet said:
“To train with all these great players, it’s just a great pleasure. I’m just trying to make the most of every moment.”
The young defender also expressed his comfort with playing in an advanced defensive system. Speaking about the tactical instructions, Jacquet said:
“He asked me to press very high up the pitch and not look behind me.”
He explained that he felt no nerves on the pitch and was content simply to focus on his game, adding that he was happy to follow the manager’s bold tactical blueprint.
Building a partnership at Anfield
This rapid progress will delight Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola. Although the defender arrived at Anfield carrying an injury, he has already started six of the club’s opening seven fixtures.
He is already forging an encouraging partnership alongside Virgil van Dijk. His rapid adaptation helps address defensive depth concerns following Ibrahima Konate’s summer exit, which also prompted the loan signing of Ronald Araujo.
The Reds currently occupy sixth place in the Premier League, having taken nine points from five games. Under Iraola, they have conceded just four times, with only Everton and Leeds United boasting a stingier defensive record.
The ultimate test awaits
Before heading back to Merseyside, the centre-back is tipped to start his third straight international match against Belgium on Monday. Zidane’s team lead League A Group 1 with seven points from three matches, sitting one point ahead of their upcoming opponents.
Following the international break, the defender will face a formidable challenge in the Premier League. Liverpool are set to welcome league leaders Manchester City to Anfield on October 11.
The 21-year-old will be key to stopping Erling Haaland as Iraola’s side attempt to become the first team to halt City’s perfect start to the campaign.
