Zinedine Zidane has been named the new manager of the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps and taking charge of the side he once inspired to major success as one of the country’s finest players.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French football federation, confirmed Zidane’s arrival at the FFF headquarters in Paris on Tuesday and revealed that he had signed a four-year deal.
“This is a truly special occasion because of the individual sitting beside me,” Diallo said. “Zinedine is an icon of French football, and he has spoken for many years about his ambition to manage the national team.”
Zidane, 54, has been out of management since departing Real Madrid in 2021. “This feels like the natural next step and the fulfilment of a dream,” he said. “Several clubs approached me during my five years away, but I rejected every proposal because coaching France was the only position I wanted.”
The former midfielder described leading the country he represented with distinction as “a tremendous source of happiness”. “I am experiencing so many emotions, but I am prepared for this challenge,” he said. “It is what drives me forward.”
Zidane also paid tribute to Deschamps, who guided France to the 2018 World Cup title before leaving after the latest tournament, in which Les Bleus were defeated by Spain in the semi-finals. “I now have the privilege of managing this team, and I will devote all my energy to helping it succeed,” Zidane said. “I also want to congratulate DD on his outstanding achievements over the years.”
Diallo said he first held discussions with Zidane in February 2025, after Deschamps confirmed that he intended to leave following the 2026 World Cup. “Football itself is what inspires me. I played as a No 10 and have always enjoyed attacking play and scoring goals,” Zidane said. “I led others on the pitch, and now I want to use my experience to provide leadership from the sidelines.”
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