Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of the France national team, taking over from Didier Deschamps. This marks Zidane’s first managerial role since his second departure from Real Madrid in 2021.
Deschamps, who was France’s longest-serving manager, concluded his 14-year tenure after the team’s semi-final exit at the 2026 World Cup. Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has signed a contract that will see him lead the nation through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.
The 54-year-old, widely regarded as one of France’s greatest players, expressed his pride in leading the national side. He stated that taking on this role was a “great source of pride” and acknowledged the responsibility that comes with it. Zidane also thanked French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo and the executive committee for their confidence.
Zidane’s managerial return
Zidane’s appointment comes after a five-year hiatus from management. He revealed that he had turned down multiple job offers during this period, indicating that the France national team position was the only one he desired. He officially begins his role on 1 August, with plans to announce his staff in September.
During a press conference, Zidane commented on his approach, stating, “Didier Deschamps is Didier Deschamps. Laurent Blanc was Laurent Blanc. Zizou is Zizou. I’m going to try to do what I know how to do.” He emphasised a desire for continuity to ensure the French team continues its winning trajectory.
Philippe Diallo described Zidane as a “legend” of French football, noting that his appointment brings together a highly decorated coach with a team possessing significant potential. Diallo recalled a meeting where Zidane conveyed his confidence in his ability to win, which reassured the federation president.
A legacy of success
Zidane’s managerial career with Real Madrid was marked by significant success. He first took charge of Real Madrid Castilla in 2014 before becoming the first-team manager in January 2016. By the end of that season, he had guided them to Champions League success, defeating Atletico Madrid in the final.
This was the first of three consecutive Champions League titles for Madrid under Zidane, making them the first club to achieve back-to-back European crowns in the Champions League era and the first to win three in a row since Bayern Munich in 1976. He also secured a La Liga title in 2016-17 before his initial departure.
Zidane returned to Madrid in March 2019 and led the team to another Spanish league title in 2019-20. His tenure also saw extensive spending on players such as Eden Hazard and Rodrygo. He left the club at the end of a trophyless 2020-21 campaign.
As a player, Zidane’s career highlights include scoring two headed goals in France’s 3-0 victory over Brazil in the 1998 World Cup final. He also played a key role in France’s Euro 2000 triumph. His final professional match was the 2006 World Cup final against Italy, where he scored an early penalty.
Deschamps’ previous tenure saw France win the World Cup in 2018 and the 2021 Nations League. His team reached the European Championships final in 2016 and the World Cup final in 2022. Zidane’s first competitive fixture as France head coach will be a Nations League trip to Turkey on 25 September.
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Source: bbc.com
