Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the France men’s national team, marking his return to management after a five-year absence. The former Real Madrid manager confirmed that he turned down numerous job opportunities during this period, stating his sole ambition was to lead Les Bleus.
Zidane’s appointment follows the resignation of Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after a 12-year tenure. Deschamps had announced his intention to leave his role at the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup cycle in January 2025. Zidane met with the French Football Federation president in February 2025, expressing his desire to succeed Deschamps.
A Dream Realised
During his first press conference as France boss on Monday, Zidane explained his decision to wait for the national team role. He stated that he had received offers to manage clubs over the last four or five years but rejected them all, as the France national team was the only position he truly desired after his time with Real Madrid. He emphasized that he has viewed the national team not only as a fan but also as a potential future manager.
Zidane, who is 54 years old, described his new role as a “continuity, a dream.” He has been involved with the French national team since his youth, progressing through various levels to reach the senior squad. He is set to officially begin his duties on August 1 and plans to announce the rest of his coaching staff in September.
The new coach also addressed questions regarding his coaching style and the team’s captain, Kylian Mbappe. He mentioned that he had not yet spoken with Mbappe, believing the player needed rest. Discussions with Mbappe and other players are scheduled for September.
Building on a Successful Legacy
Zidane takes over a team that enjoyed significant success under Deschamps. During his 12 years in charge, Deschamps led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League. The team also reached the finals of the European Championships in 2016 and the World Cup in 2022, where they were runners-up.
Despite the team’s strong performance, particularly at the World Cup where they won all three group-stage games and scored 10 goals, their campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semi-finals. This was followed by a 6-4 loss to England in the third-place play-off, which was Deschamps’ final game.
Zidane acknowledged the magnificent run and style of play under Deschamps, stating there were no complaints about how things transpired. However, he indicated that his approach would be different, emphasizing his own identity as a coach. He stated, “Didier Deschamps is Didier Deschamps. Laurent Blanc was Laurent Blanc. Zizou is Zizou. I’m going to try to do what I know how to do.”
He also stressed that his appointment does not represent a complete break from the past but rather a continuation, aiming to maintain the French team’s winning trajectory. The French FA president, Phillippe Diallo, recalled a meeting with Zidane in February 2025, where Zidane confidently stated, “Mr President, I know how to win.” This assertion convinced Diallo of Zidane’s desire and confidence to lead the team.
A Proven Winner
Zidane’s coaching career with Real Madrid showcased his ability to achieve success at the highest level. In his first spell as manager, he guided the club to three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018. He also secured two La Liga titles during his time at the club, in the 2016-17 and 2019-20 seasons, before departing after a trophyless season.
As a player, Zidane was a pivotal figure in France’s first-ever World Cup triumph in 1998 and their European Championship victory two years later, playing alongside Deschamps. His final professional game was the 2006 World Cup final.
Zidane expressed no concerns about taking on a national team role for the first time, noting it is a different job from club coaching and suits his personal life. He also highlighted the immense potential within the France squad, stating he spent his five-year hiatus watching numerous matches, including those of the French national team.
He has signed a four-year deal with the national team, officially starting his role on August 1.
Source: skysports.com
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
