French former player Zinedine Zidane speaks as the new head coach of the French men’s national soccer team during a news conference Tuesday at the federation’s headquarters in Paris. Photo by Teresa Suarez/EPA
France appointed soccer legend Zinedine Zidane as coach of the men’s national team, the French Football Federation announced Tuesday.
Zidane will replace Didier Deschamps, who led Les Bleus for 14 years. His contract will run through the 2030 World Cup.
“I’ve often said it: there’s nothing greater than the French national team,” Zidane said in a news release. “So, it’s a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team. It’s also a responsibility.
“I want to thank president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the fourteen years of service from Didier and his staff. I also have a special thought today for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team!”
The French, who were among the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup, placed fourth. The 2018 champions were the runners-up in 2022, when they lost to Argentina. They reached the quarterfinals in 2014, Deschamps’ first World Cup run.
“The appointment of Zinedine Zidane as head coach of the French national team is a source of immense pride for the French Football Federation,” Zidane said. “It marks the meeting of a legend in the history of Les Bleus, who has become one of the most decorated and respected coaches of his generation, and a team with rare potential, driven by the highest ambitions.
“Zinedine Zidane’s exceptional career is built on talent, hard work, humility, and excellence. These are values shared by the French national team, and which we want to uphold together, with ambition, over the next four years.”
Zidane, 54, made 108 appearances for the French national team. The 1998 World Cup winner coached Real Madrid to three Champions League crowns during his run with the Spanish La Liga giants, which ended in 2021.
Deschamps announced in 2025 that he would step down after the 2026 World Cup.
The French sit at No. 3 in the FIFA world rankings behind top-ranked World Cup champion Spain and No. 2 Argentina. They will take on No. 27 Turkey in Nations League play Sept. 25 in Izmit, Turkey.
Spain defeats Argentina to win 2026 FIFA World Cup
Spain’s captain Rodri raises the trophy as he and his teammates celebrate after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup in East Rutherford, N.J.,, on June 19, 2026. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
