French football legend Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the France national team, marking the beginning of a new era for Les Bleus following the departure of Didier Deschamps.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed Zidane’s appointment after Deschamps stepped down following France’s fourth-place finish at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals.
The 54-year-old has signed a four-year contract that will keep him in charge through France’s qualification campaign for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with expectations already high that he can restore the nation to the summit of international football.
Zidane’s appointment brings one of the most iconic figures in French football history back to the national team, this time on the touchline rather than on the pitch.
A legend returns home
Few names carry as much weight in French football as Zinedine Zidane.
As a player, he inspired France to its first-ever FIFA World Cup triumph in 1998 before helping the nation win the UEFA European Championship in 2000.
His remarkable career also included spells with Juventus and Real Madrid, where he became one of the greatest midfielders the game has ever seen.
Following his retirement, Zidane successfully transitioned into coaching, enjoying an extraordinary spell with Real Madrid.
He guided the Spanish giants to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, becoming the first manager in the modern era to achieve such a feat.
During his two spells in charge at the Santiago Bernabéu, Zidane also won two La Liga titles, two FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups and several other domestic honours.
He has remained out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in 2021.
Zidane reacts to appointment
Speaking after his appointment was confirmed, Zidane described becoming France manager as one of the greatest honours of his career.
“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 said.
The former World Cup winner also thanked the French Football Federation for placing its trust in him.
“It’s also a responsibility. I want to thank 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.”
He added that he also wished to recognise the coaches who helped shape his own career.
“I also have a special thought today for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team.”
End of the Deschamps era
Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps, who leaves after an outstanding 14-year reign as France’s longest-serving national team manager.
Deschamps guided France to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League while also leading the team to the 2022 World Cup final and multiple major tournament semi-finals.
His tenure is widely regarded as one of the most successful periods in French football history.
Although France narrowly missed another World Cup final in 2026 after losing to Spain, Deschamps leaves behind a talented squad filled with established stars and exciting young players.
French Football Federation welcomes Zidane
French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo welcomed Zidane’s appointment, describing him as one of football’s greatest icons.
“The appointment of Zinedine Zidane as head coach of the French national team is a source of immense pride for the French Football Federation,” Diallo said.
“It marks the meeting of a legend in the history of Les Bleus, who has become one of the most decorated and respected coaches of his generation, and a team with rare potential, driven by the highest ambitions.”
The federation believes Zidane’s winning mentality and experience at the highest level will help France compete for major international honours over the coming years.
Expectations already rising
Zidane inherits one of the strongest squads in world football, with a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents expected to feature prominently during the 2030 World Cup qualification campaign.
Supporters are hopeful that his calm leadership, tactical intelligence and proven ability to manage elite players will help France remain among the favourites for every major tournament.
His appointment has already generated excitement across French football, with fans eager to see how one of the nation’s greatest-ever players will shape the next chapter of Les Bleus’ history.
Attention will now turn to Zidane’s first squad selection and his debut match as France begin preparations for the next international window.
Football fans can follow official France national team news, fixtures and announcements on the French Football Federation’s website.
