A new era has officially begun for French football as 54-year-old icon Zinedine Zidane has been appointed head coach of the France national team.
He takes over from Didier Deschamps following his legendary 14-year tenure.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, marking Zidane’s long-awaited return to management five years after departing Real Madrid.
Zidane returns to Les Bleus boasting one of the most decorated track records in football history as both a player and a manager. During his international playing career, he led France to victory in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000, claiming the Ballon d’Or in 1998 along with three FIFA World Player of the Year awards.
His transition to his managerial career was equally remarkable, guiding Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018.
Across two spells in Madrid, Zidane amassed 11 major trophies as manager—including two La Liga titles, two FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, and two Spanish Super Cups—solidifying his reputation as a proven serial winner.
All eyes now turn to Zidane’s upcoming debut on the bench, as a new chapter begins for the French national team.
