Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the France national team, bringing an end to years of speculation over his next managerial destination.
The French Football Federation confirmed the appointment at a press conference, with the former Real Madrid manager succeeding Didier Deschamps after the latter’s remarkable 13-year spell in charge of Les Bleus.
Zidane has signed a contract that will keep him in charge until 2030, with the mandate of leading France into UEFA Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
He takes over from Deschamps, who leaves as one of the most successful coaches in French football history. Since assuming the role on July 8, 2012, Deschamps oversaw 187 matches, recording 122 victories, 32 draws and just 33 defeats.
During his tenure, France won the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and reached the final of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they finished runners-up after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Argentina.
For Zidane, the appointment marks a return to the national team where he enjoyed some of the greatest moments of his illustrious playing career.
Born in Marseille on June 23, 1972, the football icon played for Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus and Real Madrid, establishing himself as one of the finest midfielders in football history.
He famously inspired France to their first-ever FIFA World Cup triumph in 1998, scoring twice in the final against Brazil, before leading the country to UEFA Euro 2000 glory. His outstanding performances earned him the Ballon d’Or in 1998, while he was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1998, 2000 and 2003.
Zidane also enjoyed remarkable success as a manager.
He took charge of Real Madrid in January 2016 following the dismissal of Rafael Benitez and immediately transformed the club into Europe’s dominant force.
During his first spell, he guided Los Blancos to a La Liga title, a Spanish Super Cup, two FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups and, most notably, three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles—becoming the first manager in history to achieve the feat.
His achievements earned him the FIFA Best Men’s Coach award in 2017.
After returning to Real Madrid for a second spell in March 2019, Zidane won another La Liga title in 2020 before stepping down at the conclusion of the 2020/21 season. He has remained out of management ever since.
The 54-year-old will officially begin his tenure with UEFA Nations League fixtures against Turkey on September 26 and Belgium on September 29.
His first home match as France coach is scheduled for October 3 at the Stade de France against Italy, as he begins the task of leading one of world football’s most talented squads into a new era.