Zinedine Zidane to Take Over as France Head Coach After Deschamps' Departure

Zinedine Zidane is ready to take the helm of the French national football team starting September 1, following Didier Deschamps' remarkable 14-year leadership. Deschamps concluded his tenure after a tough loss to England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 bronze medal match. The French Football Federation has praised Deschamps for his significant contributions, including leading France to a World Cup victory in 2018. Zidane's appointment marks a new chapter for Les Bleus as they look to build on the legacy left by Deschamps. Read on to discover more about this transition and its implications for French football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 19, 2026, 07:48 IST

Zidane's New Role with Les Bleus

Paris, France - Zinedine Zidane is poised to commence his role as head coach of the French national team, Les Bleus, starting September 1. This transition follows Didier Deschamps' impressive 14-year tenure as the team's manager, as reported by a French news outlet.

Deschamps' time as head coach concluded after a disappointing 6-4 loss to England in the bronze medal match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 held in Miami. The match saw Bukayo Saka score a hat-trick, contributing to England's commanding 4-0 lead by halftime, with goals from Declan Rice and Ezri Konsa. France attempted a comeback with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice and Bradley Barcola adding another, but Jude Bellingham's stoppage-time goal secured England's victory.

Deschamps' remarkable journey began in 2012, leading France to a World Cup victory in 2018 and reaching the finals again in 2022, before their 2026 campaign ended in a semi-final defeat to Spain.

The French Football Federation (FFF) expressed its gratitude towards Deschamps for his outstanding contributions since 2012, emphasizing his dedication and the significant impact he has made on both Les Bleus and French football.

In a statement, the FFF acknowledged Deschamps' role in restoring France's reputation and maintaining its status among the world's top teams, praising his leadership and achievements, including the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League.

Deschamps was recognized for instilling a culture of performance and unity within the team, fostering strong values, and enhancing the connection between Les Bleus and their supporters.

Having captained the 1998 World Cup-winning squad and coached the team to victory two decades later, Deschamps holds a unique position in the annals of French football. The FFF expressed its heartfelt thanks for his unwavering commitment, stating that his legacy will forever be remembered in French football and among fans.

The Federation and its staff conveyed their appreciation for his dedication, noting that his influence will remain significant, both at Clairefontaine and in the hearts of countless supporters. "Thank you, Didier," concluded the FFF.