Zinedine Zidane has been named the new head coach of the France national team, marking his return to management after a five-year hiatus. The announcement on Tuesday confirmed long-standing speculation that Zidane would succeed Didier Deschamps, who stepped down following the 2026 World Cup.
During his unveiling in Paris, Zidane expressed his strong desire for the role, stating he had declined multiple offers over the past four to five years. He emphasized that managing the national team was the only position he truly wanted after his tenure at Real Madrid. Discussions between Zidane and French football authorities reportedly began in February 2025, shortly after Deschamps announced his intention to depart.
Zidane acknowledged that leading a national team presents a new challenge compared to club management, but he conveyed confidence and readiness. He highlighted his extensive experience watching numerous matches during his time away from coaching, including many of the French national team, noting the squad’s significant potential.
A New Era for Les Bleus
The appointment has been met with widespread positive reactions from players and fans alike. Kylian Mbappe welcomed Zidane on Instagram, while former France teammate Bixente Lizarazu described it as a “great day for French football.” Lizarazu praised Zidane’s ability to manage top players and strong personalities, citing his success at Real Madrid.
Zidane’s iconic status within French football is expected to grant him a considerable degree of goodwill. This influence, potentially surpassing even that of Deschamps, could be crucial in managing an attack featuring talents such as Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Michael Olise. Zidane himself was a number 10 during his playing career and hinted at maintaining an attacking philosophy, stating, “What motivates me is the game, it’s scoring goals.”
While Zidane confirmed his intention to “do things differently,” he also indicated a degree of continuity from Deschamps’ successful era. He praised his predecessor’s work, which included winning the World Cup in 2018 and the 2021 Nations League, as well as reaching the finals of the European Championships in 2016 and the World Cup in 2022. Zidane stated, “It’s not a clean break, either. I want to maintain continuity so that the French team keeps winning.”
Looking Ahead
Zidane’s four-year contract is set to commence next month, with his full coaching staff expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The first international break under his leadership will feature four Nations League fixtures over three weeks, providing an initial opportunity for the players to adapt to the new management style.
His first match in charge will be an away game in Turkey on 25 September, followed by two matches against Belgium and a game against Italy in Paris. The match against Italy will also serve as his homecoming at the Stade de France, an event anticipated to be a memorable occasion.
The French Football Federation president, Philippe Diallo, expressed confidence in Zidane’s ability to lead the team forward. Diallo recalled a meeting in February 2025 where Zidane asserted, “Mr President, I know how to win,” which solidified Diallo’s belief in his desire and confidence for the role. Zidane’s managerial record at Real Madrid includes two La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League trophies between 2016 and 2018.
The new coach acknowledged that one of his long-term objectives will be to compete with the reigning world champions, who have defeated France in three consecutive tournament semi-finals. Zidane’s first match will be against Turkey on 25 September.
Source: bbc.com
