Elyaz Zidane Chooses His Own Identity as He Begins a New Chapter at Red Star Belgrade
Elyaz Zidane is determined to make his mark in football on his own terms. The 20-year-old defender, youngest son of French great Zinedine Zidane, knows that his surname carries enormous weight. But rather than build his career around comparisons with his father, he wants supporters to judge him by his performances, progress and personality on the pitch.
That intention is reflected in a small but meaningful choice: the name on the back of his shirt. During his time at Real Betis, he wore “Elyaz” rather than “Zidane.” Speaking to Le Parisien, he explained that the decision was not an attempt to conceal his family background. Instead, it was a way to establish an identity that belongs to him.
“At Real Betis, my name ‘Elyaz’ was printed on my shirt. I wanted to keep that tradition, with no intention of hiding behind my real name,” he said. For a young player carrying one of football’s most recognisable surnames, the distinction is significant: he acknowledges where he comes from while making clear that his career must be his own.
A Footballing Family—and a Personal Ambition
Football has been part of Elyaz’s life for as long as he can remember. Growing up in a family closely connected to the sport made the game a natural influence, and his father’s achievements inevitably shaped his early understanding of what a professional career can involve. Yet following a familiar path does not mean wanting to repeat someone else’s story.
“Football has always been an integral part of our family,” Elyaz said. “Since I grew up in this world from a young age, it was natural that I would want to follow in my father’s footsteps, but I want to write my own story.” That balance—respect for his father alongside a desire for independence—runs through his approach to the next stage of his career.
Zinedine Zidane’s record makes comparisons difficult to avoid. As a player, he became a World Cup winner and one of the most celebrated midfielders of his generation; as a coach, he added further major honours. For Elyaz, however, the challenge is not to match that legacy. It is to develop into the best player he can be, in a different position and under his own circumstances.
Managing the Attention That Comes With the Zidane Name
A famous surname can open doors, attract interest and bring valuable guidance. It can also increase the scrutiny surrounding every performance. Young players generally need time to learn, make mistakes and build confidence. When a family name is known around the world, that development can take place under a brighter spotlight.
Elyaz has acknowledged that this attention was difficult at times. “When you are young, the most important thing is being able to develop without being under constant observation, and that was a little difficult,” he said. His comments point to a familiar challenge for children of sporting icons: being assessed not only against other emerging players, but also against an exceptional standard set by a parent.
He has also spoken with pride about his father’s support. Zinedine has offered advice and encouragement, giving Elyaz the benefit of experience without removing the need to earn his own place. That support may help him navigate the pressures of professional football, but his progress will ultimately depend on his work, consistency and ability to adapt.
From Spain to Serbia: A Fresh Test at Red Star
Elyaz is now beginning a new chapter after joining Red Star Belgrade, a club with a rich history and a passionate following. The move gives him an opportunity to experience a different football culture, compete in a demanding environment and continue building the foundations of his senior career.
His formative years in Spain helped shape his football education. A move to Serbia offers a contrasting setting, where expectations from supporters and the intensity of the club’s ambitions can provide a fresh test. For a young defender, adapting to new teammates, coaching methods and match demands is an important part of development—not simply a change of address.
Red Star’s status as one of the region’s most prominent clubs means there is likely to be strong interest in how the young Zidane settles in. Still, Elyaz appears keen to keep his focus practical. He has said he wants to give his best for the team, continue improving and help the club win, rather than add unnecessary pressure by making grand predictions about his future.
Development First, Predictions Later
For fans searching for a prediction about Elyaz Zidane’s long-term prospects, certainty would be premature. At 20, he is still at a stage when regular training, match experience and steady progress matter more than sweeping comparisons or bold forecasts. His move to Red Star should be viewed as an opportunity to learn and contribute, not as a final verdict on what his career can become.
His immediate priorities are clear: perform well, earn opportunities, improve his game and support his new team. The broader questions—how far he can rise, which role will suit him best and where his career may lead—will be answered over time through his performances. That measured approach could serve him well in a sport where public expectations can move faster than a young player’s development.
Elyaz Zidane is not denying the significance of his family name. He is choosing to ensure it does not define every part of his football identity. By wearing “Elyaz” on his shirt and focusing on the work ahead, he is making a simple statement: his father’s legacy is part of his background, but his own story is still being written.
