Zinedine Zidane has finally become the new manager of the France national men’s football team. The decision made by the French Football Federation (FFF) was announced on Tuesday, which says that the former Real Madrid coach has agreed to work under a four-year deal until the FIFA World Cup 2030.
Zidane will replace Didier Deschamps, who quit after 14 years of leadership after the elimination of the French national team from the FIFA World Cup 2026. This appointment opens up a new era for Les Bleus, as the French star will lead the team to the UEFA Nations League, Euro 2028 qualification, and the FIFA World Cup 2030.
Zidane called the appointment one of the proudest moments of his career, saying nothing means more to him than leading the French national team, as he said, “A great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team. It’s also a responsibility. I want to thank President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the fourteen 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!"
Zinedine Zidane's Successful Real Madrid Journey Leads to France Head Coach Role
Zinedine Zidane is stepping into the role of head coach for France after crafting an impressive managerial career in club football. After hanging up his boots post the 2006 FIFA World Cup, he kicked off his coaching journey in 2014 with Real Madrid Castilla. Just two years later, in January 2016, he took over as the first-team manager of Real Madrid, stepping in for Rafael Benitez.
It didn’t take long for him to make his mark, as he led the team to a UEFA Champions League title by beating Atletico Madrid in the final. This victory sparked an incredible streak, making Real Madrid the first club in the Champions League era to clinch three consecutive European titles, with Zidane lifting the trophy in 2016, 2017, and 2018.
But his success wasn’t limited to Europe. Zidane also guided Real Madrid to the La Liga title in the 2016-17 season before parting ways with the club in 2018, citing the need for a new direction. He made a comeback in March 2019 during a challenging time for the team and quickly brought back stability, leading Madrid to another La Liga title in the 2019-20 season. His second stint also saw significant squad changes, with stars like Eden Hazard and Rodrygo joining the ranks. Zidane stepped away once more after the 2020-21 season and has been out of coaching since.
Now, after years of speculation about him taking the reins of the French national team, Zidane has finally accepted the role. At 54, he becomes the 18th manager of Les Bleus and will officially start on August 1. His first big task will be the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, followed by leading France through the Euro 2028 qualification and gearing up for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
