In brief
In a historic appointment Zinedine Zidane, celebrated former player and manager of Real Madrid, has been named head coach of the France national team after Didier Deschamps stepped down following a semi‑final exit at the 2026 World Cup. Zidane vows to bring pride and ambition ahead of the 2030 qualifiers. His experience includes winning three Champions League titles, La Liga and a World Cup as a player, giving him a legendary pedigree for French football. The 54‑year‑old will begin with a Nations League fixture against Turkey on 25 September.
The former Real Madrid manager, celebrated for winning three Champions League crowns, has officially taken charge of the French national side, replacing Didier Deschamps who stepped down after the nation’s last‑28‑k stage exit at the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane, 54, former France World‑Cup champion, stepping into a contract that covers the road to the 2030 qualification campaign. He expressed pride at leading Les Bleus and emphasized the responsibility of honouring the team’s legacy.
Deschamps led France to three continental finals over fourteen years, lifting the 2018 World Cup trophy. Zidane’s deep France pedigree, from a 1998 winner to starring at Real Madrid, brings a legend‑status to the head‑coach role.
His first competitive outing will be a Nations League fixture against Turkey on 25 September, setting the tone for the next decade of French football.
The appointment reflects the French Football Federation’s confidence, labeling Zidane a ‘legend’ and aligning with aspirations to reach the next World Cup.
