Zinedine Zidane appointed France manager to begin new era after Deschamps

France, Île-de-France: Football legend Zinedine Zidane takes charge of Les Bleus, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup

France have officially appointed Zinedine Zidane as the new head coach of the men’s national football team, ending years of speculation surrounding one of the country’s greatest football icons. The former Real Madrid manager succeeds Didier Deschamps, whose remarkable 14-year spell came to an end after France’s semi-final defeat to Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The appointment marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for Les Bleus as they prepare for a new cycle of international competitions, including the UEFA Nations League, Euro 2028 and qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Zidane, who has been without a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, now takes charge of one of the world’s most talented national squads.

Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, Zidane’s arrival fulfils a long-held expectation within French football. He had been repeatedly linked with the national team role over the past decade, particularly whenever questions arose over Deschamps’ future.

Speaking after his appointment, Zidane expressed immense pride at leading the country he represented with such distinction as both player and captain.

“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 after confirming his appointment.

The 54-year-old also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with leading one of international football’s elite nations. He thanked French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo, the federation’s executive committee and everyone involved in entrusting him with the position.

Zidane additionally paid tribute to his predecessor Didier Deschamps, recognising the significant contribution made during more than a decade in charge. He also thanked the coaches who helped shape his own football career while reaffirming his determination to achieve major success with the national side.

French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo welcomed the appointment, describing Zidane as a legendary figure capable of inspiring another successful generation of French footballers.

Diallo said the appointment represented a meeting between one of France’s greatest-ever players and one of the most respected coaches of modern football. He added that the federation believes Zidane possesses the experience, leadership and winning mentality required to guide the national team towards future international honours.

Deschamps leaves behind an extraordinary legacy after transforming France into one of world football’s dominant forces. During his 14 years in charge, he guided the team to three major international finals, including lifting the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, France’s second world title after the triumph inspired by Zidane in 1998.

Although France were unable to add another World Cup in 2026, reaching the semi-finals under Deschamps reinforced the nation’s status among football’s leading powers. His departure closes one of the most successful managerial eras in French sporting history.

For Zidane, the challenge now shifts from club football to the unique demands of international management. While he enjoyed unparalleled success with Real Madrid, managing a national team presents different expectations, with limited preparation time and the pressure of tournament football.

His managerial record, however, offers plenty of reasons for optimism.

After beginning his coaching journey with Real Madrid Castilla in 2014, Zidane was promoted to the senior team midway through the 2015-16 season. Within months, he delivered the UEFA Champions League trophy, defeating Atletico Madrid in the final after a penalty shootout.

That success became the start of an unprecedented period of European dominance. Zidane guided Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, becoming the first manager to achieve such a feat in the modern Champions League era.

Alongside European success, he also secured the 2016-17 La Liga title before leaving the Santiago Bernabeu in 2018. Although he returned during the 2018-19 season after Madrid struggled following his departure, he quickly restored stability and won another Spanish league championship in 2019-20.

His second spell also included overseeing significant squad investment, with players such as Eden Hazard and Rodrygo arriving at the club. However, after finishing the 2020-21 campaign without silverware, Zidane stepped down once again and has remained away from coaching until accepting the France position.

As a player, Zidane built one of the finest careers football has ever witnessed.

Beginning professionally with Cannes before starring for Bordeaux, he rose to global prominence following his move to Juventus in 1996. Two Serie A titles and successive Champions League final appearances established him among Europe’s elite before his world-record transfer to Real Madrid in 2001.

His unforgettable left-foot volley against Bayer Leverkusen in the 2002 Champions League final remains one of the competition’s greatest goals and symbolised his extraordinary technical brilliance.

For France, however, Zidane’s greatest achievements came on the international stage.

He inspired France to their maiden FIFA World Cup title in 1998 by scoring twice in the final against Brazil before lifting the Ballon d’Or later that year. Two years later, he guided Les Bleus to UEFA Euro 2000 success, cementing his place among football’s all-time greats.

His international career ended dramatically during the 2006 World Cup final against Italy. After scoring an audacious Panenka penalty, Zidane was sent off in extra time following his infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi. Italy eventually lifted the trophy following a penalty shootout, bringing an emotional end to his playing career.

Now, two decades after that unforgettable farewell, Zidane returns to the French national team in a different role.

His first competitive assignment as France manager will come away to Turkey in the UEFA Nations League on 25 September. Attention will then quickly shift towards preparations for Euro 2028 and the longer-term objective of qualifying for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Expectations will inevitably be immense given Zidane’s legendary status and remarkable record as both player and coach. Yet few figures in world football command greater respect or possess a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed on the biggest stage.

France’s latest era has officially begun, and all eyes will now be on whether Zidane can replicate his club achievements by adding more international glory to an already extraordinary football legacy.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members