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Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, announced the appointment, according to Reuters. He noted that handing the team over to Zidane is a logical next step in the development of French soccer following a period of stability under Deschamps.
“Zinedine is a symbol of French soccer. He has long spoken of his desire to one day lead the national team,” said the FFF president.
The contract with the new head coach is for four years and includes preparing the team for key international tournaments—the Nations League, the 2028 European Championship, and the 2030 World Cup.
For Zidane, this marks a return to professional soccer after a several-year hiatus. After leaving Real Madrid in 2021, he received numerous offers from leading European clubs; however, according to him, he was waiting for the opportunity to lead the French national team specifically.
“I turned down several options because my goal was the national team. This is a special moment for me,” Zidane said at his first press conference in his new role.
One of the new coach’s first tasks will be to build relationships with the team’s leaders. Zidane said he has not yet spoken with national team captain Kylian Mbappé or other players, but plans to hold meetings before the September training camp.
“We have the strongest players. Now it’s important to convey my ideas to them and create the conditions for victory,” he noted.
Zidane is set to take over a team with high expectations and a formidable legacy. Under Deschamps, France won the 2018 World Cup, reached the finals of the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2016, and cemented its status as one of the top favorites in every major tournament.
Now, Zidane faces the challenge of not only maintaining this level of performance but also shaping a new footballing identity for the national team. France’s first match under his leadership will take place on September 25—against Turkey as part of the international schedule.
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