Zinedine Zidane to Succeed Didier Deschamps as France National Team Coach
After France’s 2026 World Cup semifinal loss to Spain, Didier Deschamps will step down as head coach following the third-place playoff. Zinedine Zidane is set to take over, with an official announcement expected by late July. Zidane has been preparing for months, planning a larger coaching staff and targeting the 2028 European Championship. The transition, handled with respect for Deschamps’ 14-year tenure, marks a new era for French football.
Editorial responsibility
- No named human review is recorded for this page.
- Reports are grouped by semantic similarity and deterministic rules. Language models may assist titles, summaries, translation and cross-source analysis; the page itself is projected from evidence records.
- Source updates only; analysis pending
Analysis pending
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
Luis Fernandez Makes Bold Prediction About Zinedine Zidane as France Coach
The article reports on the end of Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure as head coach of the French national football team, with Zinedine Zidane officially appointed on Tuesday. The change has generated significant enthusiasm among French fans, who anticipate a revolution in playing style. Former French international Luis Fernandez, interviewed by Cadena SER, expressed strong excitement about Zidane's appointment. Fernandez stated that Zidane was the only personality suitable to lead the team, praising his potential and demeanor. He predicted that Zidane will put the team in good conditions to compete for a European Championship or World Cup title by 2030. The article is published by Foot Mercato, a French football transfer news outlet, and includes related links about the France team and Zidane.
Zinedine Zidane Officially Appointed France National Team Coach in Grand Ceremony
On July 28, the French Football Federation (FFF) held an elaborate press conference to officially appoint Zinedine Zidane as the new head coach of the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. The event featured unprecedented security measures, including a riot police squad from Marseille, and meticulous preparations such as a carpet replacement and backdrop without commercial branding. FFF President Philippe Diallo introduced Zidane, who expressed deep emotion, stating he had waited four to five years for this moment. Zidane praised Deschamps' work but has not contacted him recently. He addressed sensitive topics including the imprisonment of journalist Christophe Gleize in Algeria and clarified his Adidas sponsorship is not 'lifetime.' The coach met with FFF staff and about 100 fans before the press conference. His contract officially begins Saturday, but he declared himself ready for the challenge.
France National Team: Unexpected Message from Quai d'Orsay for Zidane
The appointment of Zinedine Zidane as head coach of the French national football team has drawn reactions beyond sports, including from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (Quai d'Orsay). In a social media post, the ministry welcomed Zidane's appointment, emphasizing his role in promoting France internationally. Zidane, a 1998 World Cup champion, succeeds Didier Deschamps. The ministry's message stated that the French national team inspires people when it wins and that Zidane will continue moving in that direction. The article, published by Foot Mercato on July 28, 2026, highlights the diplomatic significance of the coaching change.
Show 17 older updatesHide older updates
Zinedine Zidane Appointed France Manager After Five-Year Hiatus
Zinedine Zidane has been officially unveiled as the new manager of the France national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup. At his Paris press conference, Zidane expressed that he had waited years for this role, turning down other offers. He praised Deschamps' legacy but hinted at doing things differently while maintaining continuity. Zidane, who won three Champions League titles with Real Madrid, faces the challenge of harnessing France's star-studded attack including Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise. His appointment has been met with widespread positive reaction from players and fans, with Mbappe posting 'Welcome home' on Instagram. The 54-year-old signed a four-year deal starting next month.
Mbappé Welcomes Zidane as New French National Team Coach
Zinédine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the French national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. Shortly after the official announcement, France captain Kylian Mbappé shared a photo of Zidane on Instagram with the caption 'Welcome home,' signaling strong support from the team's star player. The appointment ends months of speculation and comes with less than two years until Euro 2028. Mbappé, who grew up idolizing Zidane, will now reunite with the former Real Madrid manager in the national team setup. The post reflects the enthusiasm among French internationals for Zidane's return to football management five years after leaving Real Madrid.
France National Team: Kylian Mbappé's Reaction to Zinedine Zidane's Appointment
Following Didier Deschamps' departure after 14 years as head coach of the French national team, Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new manager of Les Bleus. The article reports on Kylian Mbappé's reaction to this significant change. Zidane, a former Real Madrid coach and three-time Champions League winner, is about to begin the second major challenge of his career. The appointment marks a new era for the French national team, with Zidane taking over the reins from the long-serving Deschamps.
Zidane Appointed as French National Team Head Coach, Mbappé Welcomes Him Home
On July 28, the French Football Federation officially announced that Zinedine Zidane has replaced Didier Deschamps as the new head coach of the French national team. French captain Kylian Mbappé reacted on Instagram with a post saying 'Welcome home 🇫🇷💪🏽', signaling his support for the legendary former player. The announcement marks a major shift in French football leadership, with Zidane, a World Cup-winning player and former Real Madrid manager, taking over the national team. The news was reported by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports media outlet, and has generated significant attention among fans.
Bruno Genesio: Zidane Has Greatest Legitimacy for France National Team Job
Marseille coach Bruno Genesio, speaking at a press conference at La Commanderie, praised outgoing France manager Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure as exceptional, lamenting a lack of respect and decency in how quickly people forget his achievements. He then welcomed the official appointment of Zinédine Zidane as the new head coach of the French national team, stating Zidane has the greatest legitimacy for the position due to his playing career and his remarkable coaching record at Real Madrid, including three consecutive Champions League titles. Genesio expressed pride and happiness that Zidane is succeeding Deschamps.
FFF President Diallo Renews Push for Tribute to Ex-Coach Deschamps After Zidane Appointment
On July 28, 2026, during the official presentation of Zinédine Zidane as the new head coach of the French national football team, French Football Federation (FFF) President Philippe Diallo reiterated his intention to organize a tribute to former coach Didier Deschamps. Diallo revealed that an initial attempt to honor Deschamps shortly after the 2026 World Cup, where France finished fourth, fell through. He stated he would reach out to Deschamps again to arrange a suitable time for the tribute. Zidane, who took over after Deschamps' 14-year tenure, also publicly acknowledged his predecessor's contributions, having won the 1998 World Cup alongside him as a player. The article highlights the transition between two iconic figures in French football.
Zidane Praises Deschamps but Vows to Do Things Differently as New France Coach
Zinédine Zidane, during his introductory press conference at the French Football Federation (FFF) headquarters in Paris, praised predecessor Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure (2012-2026) with the French national team but asserted his own distinct approach. Zidane stated, 'We're going to do things differently. DD is DD. Laurent Blanc is Laurent Blanc. Zizou is Zizou,' emphasizing his intent to implement his own philosophy while maintaining the team's winning continuity. The former number 10 confirmed he has not yet spoken with Deschamps but would be happy to do so. Zidane's comments signal a blend of respect for the past and a clear intention to forge his own path as Les Bleus' new coach.
Zidane Has No Plans to Speak to Deschamps After Becoming France Coach
Zinedine Zidane held his first press conference as the new head coach of the French national team on July 28, 2026. During the conference, he paid tribute to his predecessor Didier Deschamps, congratulating him on 14 years of leadership and achievements with Les Bleus. However, Zidane stated that he had not contacted Deschamps before the appointment and has no immediate plans to do so for a handover. When asked directly, Zidane said, 'I don't plan to speak with DD, but it would be a pleasure if we do exchange.' The article highlights the transition in leadership and Zidane's ambition to continue winning with France.
Zidane Appointed France Coach, Hints at Attacking Style Changes
Zinédine Zidane was officially named head coach of the French national team on Tuesday, succeeding Didier Deschamps after 14 years. At a press conference, FFF President Philippe Diallo confirmed the appointment, noting Zidane's confidence in winning. Zidane declined to detail his tactical plans but indicated a shift toward a more attacking style, drawing on his experience at Real Madrid. He emphasized his identity as a former number 10 driven by scoring goals and leading on the pitch. While praising Deschamps' achievements, including the 2018 World Cup and 2021 Nations League, Zidane stated he will adapt his approach to the players, promising changes without specifying formations. A further press point is scheduled for September.
Bruno Genesio Pays Tribute to Zinedine Zidane After His Appointment as France Coach
Bruno Genesio, coach of Olympique Marseille, publicly welcomed the official appointment of Zinedine Zidane as head coach of the French national team. Speaking at a press conference in Marseille after an OM training session, Genesio expressed satisfaction that Zidane, a former Real Madrid manager with three consecutive Champions League titles, is succeeding Didier Deschamps. He stated that Zidane has the greatest legitimacy for the position given his achievements as both a player and a coach. The appointment marks the beginning of a new era for Les Bleus after 14 years under Deschamps. Zidane was officially presented at the French Football Federation headquarters in Paris.
Zidane Appointed France Coach: FFF President Reveals Behind-the-Scenes of Appointment
On July 28, 2026, Zinedine Zidane was officially appointed as the new coach of the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. During the press conference, FFF President Philippe Diallo revealed that discussions began as early as February 2025, shortly after Deschamps announced he would leave after the 2026 World Cup. Diallo described the process as a meeting of two desires: Zidane's long-held dream to lead Les Bleus and the Federation's need for a figure with the aura and competence to continue France's golden era. Diallo noted that Zidane's phrase 'President, I know how to win' tipped the scales in his favor. Multiple meetings over 18 months led to a quick and natural agreement, with Diallo emphasizing the good chemistry between them.
Zidane: After Leaving Real Madrid, Only Wanted to Coach France; No Talks Yet with Mbappé on Captaincy
Newly appointed France national team coach Zinedine Zidane held a press conference on July 28, stating that after leaving Real Madrid, his sole ambition was to coach the French national team. He paid tribute to outgoing coach Didier Deschamps and confirmed he had rejected multiple club offers over the past four to five years to wait for this opportunity. Zidane revealed he has not yet spoken with star player Kylian Mbappé about the captain's armband, emphasizing that Mbappé's rest is the priority. He expressed excitement about the challenge, outlined his leadership philosophy, and promised to reveal his tactical style in September. Zidane described the appointment as a dream come true and committed to continuing France's winning tradition.
Zidane Officially Appointed as New France Manager
Zinedine Zidane has been officially named the new manager of the French national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. The announcement was made by French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo. Zidane takes on the role five years after leaving Real Madrid. The article also covers the FFF's support for clubs affected by wildfires in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Corsica, Occitania, and the Mediterranean region. Additionally, it reports on ongoing negotiations between Lyon and Estoril for Austrian centre-back Felix Bacher, and includes an emotional message from Kylian Mbappé reflecting on France's World Cup campaign in the Americas, expressing pride despite not achieving the main goal.
Zinedine Zidane Presented as New France National Team Coach; Diallo Reveals February 2025 Meeting
On July 28, 2026, Zinedine Zidane was officially presented as the new head coach of the French national football team. During his introductory remarks, French Football Federation (FFF) president Philippe Diallo disclosed that he first met with Zidane as early as February 2025 to discuss the potential appointment. The announcement marks a major shift in French football leadership, with Zidane taking over the reins of Les Bleus. The article also references related discussions about the team's future, including potential new faces under Zidane, the role of his assistant David Bettoni, and commentary on the transition from previous coach Didier Deschamps.
Zinedine Zidane Appointed France National Team Head Coach, Shares First Words
Zinedine Zidane has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the France national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. In his first statement released via the French Football Federation (FFF) website, Zidane expressed immense joy and pride, calling the role 'the greatest thing' and a 'great responsibility.' He thanked FFF President Philippe Diallo and the Executive Committee for their trust, and paid tribute to Didier Deschamps and his staff for their 14 years of service. Zidane also acknowledged his former educators and declared his strong ambition for Les Bleus. The announcement, made on July 28, 2026, marks a major milestone for the former Real Madrid manager, who had long been linked to the national team position.
Zinedine Zidane Confirmed as New France National Team Manager
Zinedine Zidane, the former Real Madrid manager and 1998 World Cup winner with France, has been confirmed as the new head coach of the France national team. He replaces Didier Deschamps, France's longest-serving manager, who ended his 14-year tenure after the team's semi-final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in 2021. The announcement marks a major transition for French football, bringing in one of the sport's most decorated figures to lead the national side.
Zinedine Zidane Appointed Head Coach of French National Football Team Through 2030 World Cup
The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially appointed Zinedine Zidane as head coach of the French men's national football team for a four-year term, extending through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made following a meeting of the FFF's Executive Committee on Tuesday morning. Zidane, a legendary former player and highly successful coach (notably with Real Madrid), expressed joy and pride in taking the role, thanking the federation and paying tribute to outgoing coach Didier Deschamps and his staff for 14 years of service. FFF President Philippe Diallo hailed the appointment as a historic convergence of a national legend and a team with rare potential, emphasizing shared values of talent, hard work, humility, and excellence. Zidane stated he has 'great ambitions' for the team.