Zidane Takes the Helm – France’s New Football Legend

Mon Sep 14 2026 05:15:03 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Former Real Madrid great Zinedine Zidane confirmed as France's head coach after 14 years of Didier Deschamps. World‑Cup hopefuls and Nations League debut lie ahead.

Zinedine Zidane has been named head coach of the France national team, bringing a legacy of Champions League glory and World Cup triumphs to Les Bleus. He will oversee the squad’s qualification campaign for Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, succeeding Didier Deschamps after a semi‑final exit in 2026. Zidane’s appointment, praised as a source of pride by the French Football Federation, marks a historic moment for French football. The 54‑year‑old will kick off with a Nations League match against Turkey on 25 September. The federation noted his legendary playing career and coaching success, highlighting expectations of high ambitions and renewed excellence for the national side. The announcement hints at fresh tactical ambitions ahead of the 2030 World Cup qualifiers, promising fans a new era of leadership for France’s national football ambitions.

Zidane takes the helm – France’s new football legend

In a headline‑making announcement captured live by reporters worldwide, former Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as France’s new head coach, succeeding Didier Deschamps after 14 years at the helm.

Zidane will oversee the squad’s first Nations League clash against Turkey on 25 September and steer the country towards an ambitious qualification drive for Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup. The appointment follows France’s semi‑final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup, after Deschamps managed the team to three final appearances.

Former France World‑Cup winner – 1998 champion and Euro 2000 title‑holder.

Champions League triple‑winner as manager of Real Madrid (2016‑21).

Contract covers the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

Deschamps’ long tenure ends after semi‑final exit.

Zidane pledges “high ambitions” for Les Bleus.

The French Football Federation’s president Philippe Diallo hailed Zidane as a legend and a source of immense pride, outlining expectations for renewed excellence under his stewardship.

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Source: BBC Sport, July 28 2026