Zidane signed a four-year contract: with the French Football Federation, taking over from Didier Deschamps who ended his 14-year tenure after the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane has been out of management since 2021: , when he left Real Madrid. He disclosed that he turned down multiple club offers during that period, waiting exclusively for the France job.
France finished fourth at the 2026 World Cup: , losing 2–0 to Spain in the semifinals and 6–4 to England in the third-place playoff, prompting Deschamps' departure.
Zidane's first competitive match: will be a Nations League fixture away to Turkey on September 25, followed by Belgium (away, September 28) and Italy (home, October 2).
Why this matters: Zidane is widely regarded as France's greatest-ever player and one of the most decorated coaches of his generation. His appointment signals a new tactical direction for Les Bleus, with Zidane promising a more attacking, goal-oriented style of play compared to Deschamps' pragmatic approach.
Didier Deschamps, a former teammate of Zidane during France's 1998 World Cup victory, managed the national team for 14 years — the longest tenure in French history. Under his leadership, France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, reached the 2022 World Cup final (losing to Argentina on penalties), the 2016 European Championship final (losing to Portugal), and the 2026 World Cup semifinals. Despite this impressive record, critics felt the team underperformed relative to its talent pool.
Zidane emphasized continuity while hinting at a more expansive approach: *"What motivates me is the game, I was a No. 10, I like goals. I was a leader on the field and now I want to be a leader by experience."*
After retiring as a player in 2006, Zidane transitioned into coaching with Real Madrid Castilla in 2014. He took over the first team in January 2016 and achieved an unprecedented feat — winning three consecutive Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018), a record in the modern era. He also won La Liga twice (2016–17, 2019–20) and a Club World Cup, among other honors.
His tactical intelligence, man-management skills, and ability to handle superstar egos at Madrid make him uniquely suited to lead a France squad brimming with world-class talent, including Kylian Mbappé — who was revealed as the EA Sports FC 27 cover star.
Zidane's playing career is the stuff of folklore. He scored two headers in the 1998 World Cup final against Brazil, won Euro 2000, and was named FIFA World Player of the Year three times. His club career included stints at Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus (two Serie A titles), and Real Madrid, where he scored a stunning volley in the 2002 Champions League final.
His final match — the 2006 World Cup final against Italy — ended controversially when he was sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi, an image that remains etched in football history. Now, 20 years later, his first home match as France coach will be against Italy at the Stade de France on October 2.
When did Zinedine Zidane officially become France's head coach?
Zidane was appointed on July 28, 2026, with a formal announcement made by FFF president Philippe Diallo in Paris.
How long is Zidane's contract with the French national team?
Zidane signed a four-year contract, which will take him through the qualifying campaign for the 2030 World Cup.
Why did Didier Deschamps leave the France job?
Deschamps stepped down after 14 years following France's semifinal exit at the 2026 World Cup, where they lost 2–0 to Spain and then fell 6–4 to England in the third-place playoff.
What was Zidane doing before this appointment?
Zidane had been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in May 2021. He turned down several club offers, stating that the France national team job was the only role he wanted.
What is Zidane's first match in charge?
His first match will be a Nations League group game away to Turkey on September 25, 2026. He will then face Belgium away on September 28 and Italy at home on October 2.
For France fans: Zidane's appointment brings hope of a more attacking, fluid style of football. His track record of managing superstars at Real Madrid suggests he can get the best out of talents like Mbappé.
How to prepare: Follow the Nations League campaign starting in late September 2026. Zidane's first few matches will offer early clues about his tactical blueprint.
Who this affects most: French football supporters, Ligue 1 followers, and international football enthusiasts. Opponents in France's Nations League group — Turkey, Belgium, and Italy — will face a revitalized Les Bleus.
Historical context: Zidane is only the second person (after Deschamps) to have captained France to a World Cup title and later become head coach. His journey from 1998 World Cup hero to manager comes full circle nearly three decades later.
Do you think Zinedine Zidane can lead France to another World Cup or European Championship title? Will his attacking philosophy bring more success than Deschamps' pragmatic approach? Share your thoughts with us!
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