Zinedine Zidane has been officially appointed as the head coach of the French national football team, known as Les Bleus.
The appointment marks a significant transition for France, as Zidane replaces Didier Deschamps, who led the squad for 14 years [4]. This change signals the start of a new era for the national team as they look toward future international competitions.
Zidane, who is 54 years old [1], has signed a four-year contract [2]. This agreement is designed to keep him at the helm of the team through the 2030 World Cup [2].
Reports indicate the official appointment occurred this Tuesday. While some sources suggest an immediate transition, other reports from French media said that Zidane will formally begin his tenure on Sept. 1, 2024 [3].
Deschamps had been in charge of the team since 2012 [4]. His departure ends one of the longest managerial tenures in the team's recent history, leaving a vacancy that the French Football Federation sought to fill with a figure of Zidane's stature.
Zidane's return to the national team setup comes after a storied career as both a player and a club manager. The four-year deal provides the stability necessary to integrate new talent into the squad before the next cycle of major tournaments begins.
“Zinedine Zidane has been officially appointed as the head coach of the French national football team.”
Zidane's appointment represents a strategic move by France to maintain elite status by installing a manager with proven success at the highest levels of club football. By securing a contract that extends to 2030, the federation is prioritizing long-term continuity over short-term fixes, ensuring a full cycle of preparation for the next two World Cups.
