Zidane Appointed France Head Coach, Replaces Deschamps After World Cup Exit

Zinedine Zidane has officially taken over as head coach of the France national team, ending a long wait for the country's greatest ever player to step into the role. The former Real Madrid manager succeeds Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years in charge following France's semifinal defeat to Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Zidane, a World Cup winner with Les Bleus in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. The 54-year-old has signed a contract that will see him lead France through the qualification campaign for the 2030 World Cup. Describing the appointment as "a great source of pride," Zidane paid tribute to his predecessor and the federation. "There's nothing greater than the French national team," Zidane said at his unveiling. "It's a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team. It's also a responsibility. I want to thank president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the 14 years of service from Didier and his staff." French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo hailed the new coach as a "legend." Diallo said Zidane's hiring marks the meeting of a decorated coach with a squad full of potential. Zidane's first competitive match will be a Nations League trip to Turkey on 25 September. Before that, he will oversee preparations for a new era after France finished fourth at the World Cup. Zidane's managerial career includes three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018, plus two La Liga crowns. He also oversaw big-money signings such as Eden Hazard and Rodrygo. Since leaving the Bernabeu in 2021, he had been the most sought-after free agent in coaching. As a player, Zidane starred for Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid. He scored a stunning volley in the 2002 Champions League final and netted twice in the 1998 World Cup final as France beat Brazil 3-0. He also won Euro 2000 with France and claimed the Ballon d'Or in 1998. Deschamps, France's longest-serving manager, led the country to three major finals and the 2018 World Cup title before stepping aside after the 2026 semifinal loss.