Zinedine Zidane Appointed as France’s New National Team Manager

The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially appointed Zinedine Zidane as the new head coach of the France men’s national football team, ushering in a new era for one of the world’s most successful football nations. The appointment comes after the departure of Didier Deschamps, who stepped down following the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an impressive 14-year spell in charge.

Zidane, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, returns to coaching after a five-year absence since leaving Real Madrid. During his time with the Spanish giants, he established himself as one of football’s elite managers, winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, and several other domestic and international trophies.

The appointment marks a symbolic transition for French football. Zidane and Deschamps were teammates in France’s historic 1998 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, a tournament in which Zidane’s two goals in the final helped secure the country’s first world title. Now, Zidane takes over the national team with the aim of building on that legacy while guiding a talented generation of players into a new competitive cycle.

Deschamps leaves behind an outstanding record, having led France to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2020–21 UEFA Nations League title, and finals appearances at UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His tenure established France as one of the dominant forces in international football.

Speaking after his appointment, Zidane expressed his pride at taking charge of his national team and acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the role. He also paid tribute to Deschamps for his years of dedication and success, while emphasizing his ambition to keep France competing for major international honors.

Zidane’s first matches in charge are expected to come in the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, where fans will be eager to see his tactical approach and vision for the future of Les Bleus. With a squad featuring world-class talent and one of football’s most respected figures on the sidelines, expectations will be high as France begins a new chapter under its legendary former captain.