Zidane and Klopp crack down: France and Germany ban in-camp haircuts

Reports describe the measures as part of Zinedine Zidane’s push for greater discipline and fewer off-pitch distractions. | Photo Credit: AFP

Zinedine Zidane and Jurgen Klopp have both moved to tighten discipline at their national team camps, with France and Germany introducing parallel bans on in-camp haircuts and stricter rules on media and technology access.

In France, Zidane has barred barbers and hairdressers from the Clairefontaine base once the squad arrives, requiring players to report with their chosen hairstyles already in place, thereby marking an end to the traditional media “fashion show” of arrivals. Reports describe the measures as part of a push for greater focus and fewer off-pitch distractions.

New Germany boss Klopp has also introduced a series of bold codes of conduct ahead of the UEFA Nations League matches, after accepting the German FA’s offer to replace Julian Nagelsmann following a disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

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One of the first changes brought in involves the squad eating together at their hotel. Under Nagelsmann, players had flexibility over mealtimes and often drifted in for dinner between 7pm and 8pm.

Klopp has also limited the use of technology during specific parts of training camps. A new ban on mobile phones applies to matchday activation sessions, including time in the gym or on the treatment table, with the manager wanting his players fully present and engaged with each other and the coaching staff.

Haircuts at the team hotel or training facilities are likewise banned in the Germany camp, viewed as unprofessional and part of a “luxury” atmosphere Klopp wants to reduce.