Zinedine Zidane Appointed Head Coach of France National Team
French football icon Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the France men’s national team, bringing an end to months of speculation over who would succeed Didier Deschamps after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed Zidane’s appointment following Deschamps’ departure, marking the beginning of a new era for Les Bleus. Deschamps stepped down after a remarkable 14-year spell in charge, during which he led France to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title, the 2021 UEFA Nations League trophy, and finals appearances at UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He left as the longest-serving and one of the most successful managers in French football history.
Zidane, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, returns to management after an illustrious coaching career with Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, in addition to two La Liga crowns, two FIFA Club World Cups, and several other domestic and international honours. His success in club football has made him one of the most sought-after coaches in the world.
As a player, Zidane remains one of France’s most celebrated sporting figures. He captained the national team to victory at the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil and played a pivotal role in winning the UEFA European Championship in 2000. His technical brilliance, vision and leadership made him a symbol of French football and earned him the FIFA World Player of the Year award three times.
The appointment had long been anticipated after Deschamps announced in January 2025 that he would leave his position following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. Zidane reportedly rejected several lucrative offers from leading European clubs while waiting for the opportunity to manage his country’s national team.
France’s 2026 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment after a semifinal defeat to Spain before finishing fourth following a loss to England in the third-place playoff, bringing Deschamps’ successful tenure to a close.
Zidane now faces the task of rebuilding the French squad ahead of the UEFA Euro 2028 qualifiers. With world-class talents such as Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, William Saliba and Ousmane Dembélé expected to form the core of the team, expectations are high that the former midfield maestro can guide France back to major international success.
Football fans across France have welcomed the appointment, viewing Zidane’s arrival as the start of a fresh chapter for one of the world’s most talented national teams. His immediate objective will be to restore France’s winning momentum and prepare Les Bleus to challenge for the UEFA European Championship and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.