French football has entered a thrilling new chapter after Zinedine Zidane was officially unveiled as head coach of the national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps following his remarkable 14-year reign.
The French Football Federation confirmed Zidane’s appointment on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, after its executive committee approved a four-year contract that will keep the former Real Madrid manager in charge through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. His agreement officially takes effect on August 1.
Standing alongside FFF president Philippe Diallo at the federation’s headquarters in Paris, Zidane described the appointment as the continuation of a lifelong dream. The French legend revealed that he had rejected several club opportunities while waiting for the chance to lead his country.
Zidane takes control after Deschamps brought one of the most successful periods in French football history to an end. During his tenure, France won the 2018 World Cup, lifted the 2021 UEFA Nations League trophy and reached the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.
Expectations surrounding Zidane will be enormous. As a player, he inspired France to the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 titles, becoming one of the country’s greatest sporting icons. As a manager, he guided Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League trophies between 2016 and 2018, alongside two La Liga titles.
The 54-year-old now inherits a talented French squad featuring captain Kylian Mbappé and several exciting young players. His immediate mission will be to restore momentum following France’s 2026 World Cup campaign and prepare Les Bleus for their next major international challenges.
Zidane’s first match in charge is expected to come against Türkiye in the UEFA Nations League on September 25, followed by fixtures against Italy and Belgium.
From lifting trophies in the famous blue shirt to directing France from the technical area, Zidane has finally accepted the role many believed was destined to be his.
The waiting is over. The Zidane era has officially begun.
