Zinedine Zidane Takes the Helm as France's New Head Coach

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the head coach of the France national team. This appointment follows Didier Deschamps's exit after a 14-year tenure, which ended with France's semi-final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Zidane, who won the World Cup with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. The 54-year-old, widely regarded as France's greatest player, will lead the nation through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. Upon his appointment, Zidane expressed that it was "a great source of pride" to manage the French national side, especially after their fourth-place finish at the World Cup. He acknowledged the long service of Deschamps and his staff, emphasizing his high ambitions for the team. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, hailed Zidane as a legend of French football, stating that his appointment is a source of immense pride for the federation. He noted the meeting of a legendary figure with a team of rare potential. Deschamps, during his tenure, led France to three major finals and secured their second World Cup victory in 2018. Zidane's first competitive fixture will be a Nations League trip to Turkey on 25 September. Zidane began his managerial career in 2014 with Real Madrid Castilla and quickly rose to prominence, leading the first team to three consecutive Champions League titles. However, he left the club after a trophyless campaign in 2020-21 and has not managed since. After years of speculation, Zidane has finally taken the role he has long been courted for and aims to guide France into qualifying for Euro 2028.

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-07-28