World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane named head coach of France men’s national team
World Cup Winner Zinedine Zidane Named France Head Coach
Healfromzero.com – World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of France for the next four years, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Tuesday. The 54-year-old will succeed Didier Deschamps, who stepped down following the 2026 World Cup campaign. Zidane takes charge after Les Bleus were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the semifinals, despite being considered strong favorites in North America.
A Return to International Management
Following defeat to England in the third-place match, the French icon returns to management after departing Real Madrid in 2021. “I have often said there is nothing greater than the French national team,” Zidane stated. “It is therefore a joy and obviously a great honor to become the coach of France. It is also a responsibility.”
Zidane thanked President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee, and the FFF for their confidence. He also acknowledged Deschamps’ fourteen-year tenure: “I want to thank President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee and the French Football Federation for their trust and salute the fourteen years of Didier and his staff.”
The appointment positions World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane to join an exclusive group of individuals who have won the tournament as both player and manager. His return to the national team setup is expected to be warmly welcomed by all stakeholders.
Playing Legacy and Future Ambitions
As a player, Zidane achieved remarkable success. He helped France secure its first World Cup title in 1998, scoring two goals in the final against Brazil. The attacking midfielder’s two headers in the 3-0 victory earned the nation its first star above the badge.
Two years later, France won the European Championship, becoming the first World Cup winner to also claim the Euros during this remarkable two-year period. Zidane’s final appearance for Les Bleus came in the 2006 World Cup final against Italy, where he was sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi during the penalty shootout loss.
France supporters hope his return will help overcome that disappointing night in Berlin. This represents Zidane’s first international management role, a position he has pursued for some time. Upon leaving Real Madrid’s second spell in 2021, he appeared to be waiting for Deschamps’ departure.
“It’s a continuation for me, a dream come true,” Zidane explained. “Over the last four or five years, I’ve received offers to lead a club and I rejected them all for the France national team. It’s the only thing I’ve wanted to do. I knew it since I was a kid.”
While new to international coaching, Zidane brings extensive club-level achievements. At Real Madrid, he guided the team to three consecutive Champions League titles, two league championships, and two Club World Cups. The expectation is clear: another World Cup victory in 2030.
With attacking stars including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Désiré Doué, and Bradley Barcola, Zidane faces the challenge of creating harmony among his forward options. Finding balance has been difficult for France since their 2018 World Cup triumph.
“We’ll be doing things differently. Deschamps is Deschamps, Blanc is Blanc, Zidane is Zidane. I will do what I know how to do. I guarantee continuity so that the French national team keeps winning.”
Zidane added: “Soon, you will see my style. We’ll have a press conference in September. I love football. I played as a number 10 and what motivates me is scoring goals.”
FAQ: Zidane’s Appointment
How long is Zinedine Zidane’s contract with France? Zidane has signed a four-year contract as head coach of the French national team.
Who does Zidane replace as France coach? He succeeds Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after the 2026 World Cup.
What are Zidane’s main goals with France? His primary objective is winning the 2030 World Cup while maintaining the team’s winning tradition.
Has Zidane managed before? Yes, he had two spells managing Real Madrid, winning three consecutive Champions League titles.
When will Zidane hold his first press conference? He announced a press conference will take place in September.
For more on France’s World Cup journey: Zidane named France head coach