Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the France national football team, replacing Didier Deschamps [1, 2].
The appointment marks the return of one of football's most decorated figures to the national side. Zidane's leadership is intended to guide the team through the qualification process for the 2030 World Cup [1, 5].
Zidane, 54 [1], previously left his role as head coach of Real Madrid in 2021 [3]. His history with the national team is deeply rooted in the 1998 World Cup, where he helped lead France to victory on home soil [4].
While some reports indicate the appointment is finalized, other sources said that the French Football Federation was reviewing government exceptions regarding salary increases for the position [6].
Zidane has previously spoken about his aspirations for the role. He said that coaching the French national team is "the only thing that" matters [7].
The transition comes as France seeks to maintain its status as a global powerhouse in the sport. Zidane's tenure will focus on integrating new talent, and maintaining the tactical discipline established by his predecessor.
“Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the France national football team”
The appointment of Zidane represents a strategic move by the French Football Federation to bring a legendary figure back into the fold. By securing Zidane for the 2030 World Cup cycle, France is betting on a coach who possesses both the prestige of a world-class player and the proven tactical success of a club manager. This shift signals a new era for Les Bleus as they move beyond the long-term stability of the Deschamps era.
