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

Zidane's New Chapter with the French National Team

Paris: Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the French national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps, under whom he previously achieved great success as a player.

Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation, made the announcement at a press conference in Paris on Tuesday, confirming that Zidane has signed a four-year contract.

"This is a remarkable moment, especially because of the individual beside me," Diallo stated. "Zinedine is a true icon of French football, and he has long expressed his desire to lead the national team."

The 54-year-old Zidane has been out of coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.

𝗭𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗘 𝗭𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗘, 𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗩𝗘𝗔𝗨 𝗦𝗘́𝗟𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗨𝗥 𝗗𝗘 𝗟’𝗘𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗣𝗘 𝗗𝗘 𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 pic.twitter.com/5ocGyYETNm

— Equipe de France (@equipedefrance) July 28, 2026

"For me, this represents continuity and a dream come true," Zidane remarked. "During my five-year hiatus, I received several offers to manage clubs, but I declined them all for the chance to coach the France team. That was my sole ambition."

Zidane expressed his immense joy at leading the team he once played for, stating, "I am filled with emotions and ready for this challenge. That is what drives me."

He acknowledged Deschamps' achievements, including winning the 2018 World Cup, and noted that Deschamps stepped down following the recent World Cup, where France was eliminated in the semifinals by Spain.

"Today, I have the chance to lead this team, and I will dedicate myself to ensuring its success," Zidane affirmed. "I also want to congratulate DD (Deschamps) for his outstanding tenure."

Diallo revealed that he had discussions with Zidane in February 2025 after Deschamps announced his intention to resign after the 2026 World Cup.

"What motivates me is the game itself; I was a No. 10, and I love scoring goals," Zidane concluded.