Football legend Zinedine Zidane has officially been named the new manager of the French national team, concluding a period of significant anticipation. The former midfield maestro has inked a four-year agreement with the French Football Federation (FFF), stepping into the role previously held by his ex-teammate Didier Deschamps.
A New Era for Les Bleus Under Zidane
The appointment marks a pivotal moment for French football, with Zidane, a World Cup and Ballon d’Or winner, now tasked with leading Les Bleus. His tenure is set to span until at least the 2030 FIFA World Cup, encompassing two UEFA Nations League campaigns (2026-27 and 2028-29) and the Euro 2028 tournament. The official unveiling took place at the FFF headquarters in Paris, where Zidane was presented alongside FFF president Philippe Diallo.
Deschamps’ Departure After a Storied 14-Year Reign
Didier Deschamps concluded his extensive 14-year management of the French national team following the recent World Cup. Under his leadership, France reached the final of the tournament, ultimately falling 2-0 to the eventual champions. The team finished fourth overall after a competitive third-place play-off match. Deschamps’ long and successful period at the helm saw France achieve significant milestones, including a World Cup victory in 2018 and a runner-up finish in 2022.
Zidane’s Coaching Pedigree and Expectations
Zidane brings a wealth of experience and a stellar reputation to the managerial hotseat. As a player, he was instrumental in France’s 1998 World Cup triumph and Euro 2000 victory. His coaching career has been equally impressive, most notably with Real Madrid. During his two spells at the helm of the Spanish giants, Zidane achieved remarkable success, securing three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, a feat unprecedented in the modern era of the competition. He also led Real Madrid to two La Liga titles and multiple other domestic honors.
The expectation is that Zidane will aim to instill his tactical acumen and winning mentality into the French squad. His appointment is seen by many as a strategic move to build upon the existing talent pool and pursue major international trophies. His familiarity with high-pressure environments and his ability to manage world-class players are considered significant assets.
Upcoming Fixtures and Challenges
Zidane’s managerial debut with France is scheduled for September 25, with an away fixture against Türkiye in the Nations League. This will be followed by a derby against neighboring Belgium on September 28. His first match on home soil as France’s manager will be a highly anticipated clash against Italy on October 2.
These initial matches will provide
