In brief
Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the head coach of France’s national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps after his final appearance in the 2026 World Cup. Back after leaving Real Madrid in 2021, he signed a contract to guide France to the 2030 tournament. In his statements he praised the French Football Federation and acknowledged Deschamps’ fourteen‑year service, projecting high ambition to lead the squad to global success. Football fans will watch his first internationals as he brings new tactics to the national side.
Zidane Confirmed as New France Manager
Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of the France national team.
France’s longest‑serving manager, Didier Deschamps, ended his fourteen‑year tenure after the team’s semi‑final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, had been out of management since leaving Real Madrid a second time in 2021.
The 54‑year‑old, widely considered France’s greatest player, will sign a contract that will see him lead the nation into the 2030 World Cup.
In his appointment statement, Zidane said it was a “great source of pride” to lead the French national side following their fourth‑place finish at the World Cup.
“I’ve often said it: there’s nothing greater than the French national team. So it's a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team,” he added.
“It's also a responsibility. I want to thank French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the 14 years of service from Didier and his staff.
I also have a special thought today for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team.”
