In brief
Former Real Madrid manager and 1998 World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of France. He will lead the squad from the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals loss to Spain into the 2030 tournament. Zidane, 54, expressed pride and responsibility in taking charge of the national side, thanking former coach Didier Deschamps for 14 years of service. A contract will bind him through 2030. He anticipates high ambitions for the French team and looks forward to shaping its future.
Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of France.
Didier Deschamps, France's longest‑serving manager, ended his 14‑year stint after the nation’s semi‑final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time as head coach in 2021.
The 54‑year‑old, widely considered to be France's greatest player, will sign a contract that will see him lead the nation into the 2030 World Cup.
On being appointed, he said it was a “great source of pride” to lead the French national side following their fourth‑place finish at the World Cup.
"I've often said it: there's nothing greater than the French national team. So it's a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team," he added.
"It's also a responsibility. I want to thank the French Football Federation 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."
"I also have a special thought today for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team."
More to follow.
