Zidane appointed France Manager, succeeding Deschamps

Zinedine Zidane has officially taken over as head coach of the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years following France’s semi-final exit at the 2026 World Cup.

The 54-year-old former Real Madrid manager, who led Los Blancos to three consecutive Champions League titles, signed a four-year contract through the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Described by French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo as a “legend” of French football, Zidane had been the natural successor to Deschamps since leaving Madrid in 2021.

“I’ve often said it: there’s nothing greater than the French national team,” Zidane said. “It’s an immense joy and a great source of pride. I am ready for the challenge.”

Zidane, a World Cup winner as a player in 1998, inherits a squad that reached the World Cup final in 2022 but finished fourth this summer after losing to Spain and England.

His first competitive match in charge will be a Nations League fixture against Turkey on September 25. France will also face Belgium and Italy in their group.

Deschamps guided France to three major finals during his tenure, including World Cup glory in 2018.

Zidane, who has been out of management since 2021, turned down several club offers to wait for this opportunity. “It was the only thing I wanted to do,” he said.