Zinedine Zidane appointed France national team coach after Deschamps era ends

Tuesday 28 July 2026 - 12:30

By: Sahili Aya

Zinedine Zidane appointed France national team coach after Deschamps era ends

Zinedine Zidane has officially taken charge of the France national football team, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Les Bleus after more than a decade under Didier Deschamps.

The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed on Tuesday that the 1998 World Cup winner has been appointed as the new head coach of the national side. Zidane was formally introduced at the federation’s headquarters, completing a highly anticipated transition at the top of French football.

A historic figure returns to Les Bleus

Zidane’s appointment brings one of the most iconic figures in French football back into the national team setup. As a player, the former attacking midfielder played a decisive role in France’s triumph at the 1998 World Cup, becoming a symbol of the country’s footballing success.

His move into management follows a successful coaching career at club level, where he achieved major honours, including multiple European titles during his time in charge of Real Madrid.

End of the Deschamps era

Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps, who had led France since 2012 and established one of the most successful periods in the history of the national team.

Under Deschamps, France won the 2018 FIFA World Cup, reached the 2022 World Cup final and remained among the world’s strongest international teams. His tenure concluded after France finished fourth at the 2026 World Cup.

The transition represents a symbolic handover between two former French captains who lifted the World Cup as players and later guided the national team from the sidelines.

New expectations for the French team

Zidane now faces the challenge of maintaining France’s position among international football’s elite while introducing his own tactical vision and leadership style.

With a talented generation of players available, expectations will be high as supporters look ahead to upcoming international competitions.

The arrival of Zidane is expected to generate significant attention worldwide, as one of football’s most respected figures begins his next major challenge in the sport.

A new era begins for Les Bleus

The appointment closes a long period of speculation surrounding Zidane’s future and confirms his return to international football.

For France, the decision represents both continuity and renewal: a new coach with deep national-team roots taking over from a manager who reshaped the modern history of Les Bleus.