Zidane appointed France coach after Deschamps’ departure

French football icon Zinedine Zidane has been appointed head coach of the France national team, taking over from Didier Deschamps following the 2026 World Cup.

The French Football Federation announced the appointment on Tuesday, confirming a four-year contract for the former Real Madrid manager.

Zidane returns to coaching after stepping away from management in 2021, having previously enjoyed a successful spell at Real Madrid where he won several major trophies, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles.

His appointment comes after France’s disappointing finish at the 2026 World Cup, where Les Bleus were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals before losing to England in the third-place playoff.

Deschamps, who guided France to World Cup success in 2018 and remained in charge for 14 years, ended his tenure after the tournament.

Zidane is now expected to lead France into a new era, with the responsibility of rebuilding confidence and maintaining the country’s status as one of world football’s strongest teams.

Speaking after his unveiling, Zidane said managing France represents a significant honour and responsibility.

“I have often said there is nothing greater than the French national team. It is therefore a joy and obviously a great honour to become the coach of France. It is also a responsibility. I want to thank President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee and the French Football Federation for their trust and salute the fourteen years of Didier and his staff,” he said.

The 54-year-old also expressed his ambitions for the national team and paid tribute to those who supported his development throughout his career.

“I also have a special thought today for all my teachers. Needless to say, I have a lot of ambition for the French Team!” he added.

Zidane’s first major assignment will be preparing France for upcoming international competitions as he begins his first coaching role at national team level.