French football legend Zinedine Zidane will become the new head coach of the French national team after signing a contract that runs until 2030.
The appointment begins a new chapter for France after the successful reign of Didier Deschamps. Deschamps has managed the team since 2012 and will step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
During his 14 years in charge, Deschamps led France to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title and the 2021 UEFA Nations League trophy while also guided the team to the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Many football fans expected Zidane to take the job with his appointment ending years of speculation about his future.
Zidane remains one of France’s greatest footballers inspiring the country to its first FIFA World Cup title in 1998. Two years later, he helped France win the UEFA Euro 2000.
The former midfielder also enjoyed great success as a manager. He guided Real Madrid to three straight UEFA Champions League titles while also winning two La Liga trophies and several other major honours.
Zidane will officially begin work on September 1. His first major task will be leading France in the UEFA Nations League and then preparing the team for Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
France already has one of the strongest squads in international football. Zidane will work with stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, William Saliba, and Michael Olise.
Supporters now hope Zidane can build another golden era for French football. They believe his experience and winning mentality can help France compete for more major trophies.
