France have officially appointed Zinedine Zidane as their new head coach, ushering in a new era for Les Bleus following the departure of long-serving manager Didier Deschamps.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed the appointment after Deschamps stepped down following France’s semi-final defeat to Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to his successful 14-year reign.
Zidane, who captained France to their first-ever World Cup triumph in 1998, returns to management for the first time since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 after a trophy-laden second spell with the Spanish giants.
The 54-year-old has signed a contract that will see him lead the national team through the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, with his first competitive assignment set to be a UEFA Nations League clash against Turkey on September 25.
Reacting to his appointment, Zidane described the opportunity to manage his country as the pinnacle of his coaching 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,” Zidane said.
“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.”
FFF president Philippe Diallo hailed the appointment, describing Zidane as one of the greatest figures in French football history.
“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.”
Zidane inherits one of the world’s most talented squads but also follows a manager who enjoyed unprecedented success with the national team.
During his 14 years in charge, Deschamps guided France to three major international finals, including victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, while cementing his place as the country’s longest-serving national team coach.
Having enjoyed remarkable success at Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles among numerous other honours, Zidane now faces the challenge of translating his club achievements onto the international stage as France look to reclaim their place at the summit of world football.
